FIFA World Cup 2026: Croatia make three changes for must-win Ghana clash in Group L
Philadelphia, June 28
Croatia have dropped Josko Gvardiol in one of three changes for their final FIFA World Cup Group L match against Ghana in Philadelphia on Saturday, while Ghana also made three alterations despite already securing a place in the next round.
Croatia, who need a win to guarantee qualification for the knockout stage, saw coach Zlatko Dalic hand starts to Ante Budimir and Nikola Vlasic for the first time in the tournament, with Petar Sucic also recalled, as per Reuters.
Ghana, coached by Carlos Queiroz, brought in Kamaldeen Sulemana in attack and Derrick Luckassen in defence, in place of Jerome Opoku.
Ivan Perisic is set to make his 20th FIFA World Cup appearance for Croatia, with every one of those matches coming as a starter. Among outfield players, only Paolo Maldini (23 matches), Diego Maradona (21), and Uwe Seeler (21) have made more World Cup appearances while starting each game, as per OptaJoe. Elsewhere in Group L, England are already through to the round of 32 and face Panama in their final group match.
Lineups:
Croatia: Dominik Livakovic, Josip Stanisic, Marin Pongracic, Josip Sutalo, Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric, Ante Budimir, Nikola Vlasic, Ivan Perisic, Martin Baturina, Petar Sucic. Ghana: Benjamin Asare, Jonas Adjetey, Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, Gideon Mensah, Elisha Owusu, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Derrick Luckassen, Marvin Senaya.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's good to see Ante Budimir and Nikola Vlasic getting starts—fresh legs might be just what Croatia need. But I'm most excited about Perisic making his 20th World Cup start! That's an incredible achievement, joining legends like Maldini and Maradona. What a player! 🇭🇷
Honestly, I feel Croatia have been a bit disappointing so far this World Cup. Dropping Gvardiol seems harsh—he's been one of their best defenders. But maybe Dalic knows something we don't. Ghana are dangerous, though, with Ayew and Semenyo up front. Should be a tense match. 🤔
England already through to round of 32—no surprises there. But Ghana vs Croatia is the real thriller today! I'm supporting Ghana simply because Africa's representation matters. Kamaldeen Sulemana is such an exciting young talent. Let's see if he can make an impact! 🌍⚽
Modric at 39 still orchestrating the midfield—absolute legend. But I wish India could be in a World Cup like this someday. We have the passion, just need the infrastructure and grassroots development. For now, I'll enjoy these high-stakes matches. Croatia must win, but Ghana will fight! 🇮🇳❤️
I'm a bit critical of Dalic here—why change a winning formula? Croatia's defense has looked shaky, and dropping Gvardiol might backfire. Ghana are no pushovers; Partey in midfield will boss the game if given space. Let's
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.