FIFA World Cup 2026: Vlasic's late header sends Croatia into WC round of 32
Philadelphia, June 28
Nikola Vlasic headed home a dramatic late goal as Croatia secured a 2-1 victory over Ghana to book their place in the FIFA World Cup round of 32 on Saturday.
Vlasic's 83rd-minute header from a Luka Modric corner restored Croatia's lead, just 10 minutes after Derrick Luckassen had equalised from a free-kick delivery to cancel out Petar Sucic's superb long-range opener in the first half.
Despite the defeat, Ghana progressed to the round of 32 as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams. Croatia's victory also extinguished Scotland's slim hopes of reaching the knockout stage.
England finished top of Group L after their 2-0 victory over Panama, while Croatia sealed second place with their win over Ghana. Ghana, who had already secured qualification before the final round of group matches, advanced as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams.
Susic gave Croatia a deserved lead after 31 minutes with a long-range strike into the bottom left corner.
However, Ghana's improved display after the break was rewarded when Luckassen headed home Ernest Nuamah's delivery. The goal was eventually awarded after a lengthy VAR review of nearly four minutes confirmed there was no offside.
As the match entered the final 10 minutes, Vlasic rose highest to head home a pinpoint delivery from Luka Modric, sealing Croatia's second Group L victory and a place in the round of 32.
Ghana will meet the winners of Group K, Portugal or Colombia, on Friday in Kansas City.
— ANI
Reader Comments
That VAR check killed the momentum for Ghana! Four minutes is too long, yaar. But credit to Croatia for staying focused. Sucic's goal was a rocket - top bins stuff! 🔥
Ghana showing African football is no joke. It's good they progressed as one of the best third-placed teams. Meanwhile, our Indian team is nowhere near this level. We need better grassroots development, better leagues, and more exposure. This World Cup is a masterclass in what we're missing
Scotland must be heartbroken! They were so close but Croatia's win sealed their fate. That's football for you - one moment can change everything. Modric's corner delivery was inch-perfect for Vlasic. Croatia's midfield is just too good. 🇭🇷
England top of the group as expected, but Croatia's resilience is impressive. From being runners-up in 2018 to this generation, they keep producing big moments. Ghana vs Portugal/Colombia will be a cracker! India should take notes on how Croatia develops talent from a small population
Honestly, I feel VAR is ruining the flow of the game. Four minutes for an offside check? Too much! But that aside, what a match - end-to-end action. Loved seeing the passion from both sets of players. Football has truly become global. Wish we could see India there someday 🤞
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