World Cup 2026 / Croatia - Ghana (2-1): both teams advance to the round of 16

Croatia defeats Ghana 2-1 after a spectacular match

Africa 27 June 2026 at 18:58

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World Cup 2026 / Croatia - Ghana (2-1): both teams advance to the round of 16

27.06.26 FT World Cup

Croatia

Ghana

Croatia turned up the heat against Ghana (2-1) to secure their ticket to the round of 16. The Black Stars, beaten in Philadelphia, continue their World Cup journey thanks to the best third-placed teams ranking.

Philadelphia witnessed a rollercoaster of a match on Saturday night. Croatia clinched qualification for the round of 16 by overcoming Ghana (2-1) in the final Group L fixture, a clash that lived up to all expectations right up until the dying moments.

The Vatreni got off to a strong start courtesy of Petar Sučić, well set up by Kovačić in the 31st minute. However, Ghana hit back through Derrick Luckassen after a brilliant assist from Ernest Nuamah (73'), putting everything back on the line. Ultimately, it was Nikola Vlašić, teed up by captain Luka Modrić, who sealed the Croatian victory with a precise strike in the 83rd minute.

With this result, both teams move on to the round of 16, but for different reasons. Croatia advances thanks to this crucial win, while Ghana, despite the defeat, had already mathematically secured a spot among the top eight third-placed teams before kickoff.