TDT | Manama

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Croatia leapfrogged Ghana into second place in Group L after a hard-fought victory that secured their place in the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup.

Petar Sucic and Nikola Vlasic provided the decisive goals as Zlatko Dalic’s side produced a determined display to move above the already-qualified Black Stars in the standings.

Although a draw would have been enough for Croatia to progress as one of the best third-placed teams, they showed early intent and came close in the 17th minute when Vlasic struck the outside of the post from distance.

The breakthrough arrived just after the half-hour mark, with Sucic unleashing a powerful 30-yard effort that flew through traffic and nestled inside the left-hand post to give Croatia a deserved lead.

Ghana offered little in the opening period, with Antoine Semenyo’s effort just before the break their only notable attacking moment.

The Black Stars improved after half-time and eventually found an equaliser 17 minutes from time, when Derrick Luckassen reacted quickest at a free-kick to side-foot home.

However, parity lasted only 10 minutes. From a Luka Modric corner, Vlasic was left unmarked and made no mistake, heading in off the inside of the post to restore Croatia’s lead and secure victory.

Sucic’s standout performance saw him named Player of the Match, with the 22-year-old midfielder marking his display in style. At 22 years and 245 days, he also became the second-youngest player to score for Croatia at a FIFA World Cup, behind Josko Gvardiol (20 years, 328 days against Morocco in 2022).