Croatia - Ghana / 2026 FIFA World Cup

Follow the LIVE broadcast of the Croatia vs. Ghana match in Group L of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on ŠPORT.sk! The match, which can also be watched live on JOJ play, kicks off at 11:00 PM.

In Group L, the qualification picture remains incredibly tight ahead of the final matches, with three teams still vying for the top spot. African side Ghana is in a particularly strong position, having yet to concede a goal in the tournament and boasting four points before their crucial clash with Croatia, one more than their European opponents.

The math clearly suggests that even four points would most likely be enough to secure a spot in the knockout stage. This means that both camps could ultimately be satisfied with a draw, as it would guarantee them a place in the Round of 16.

Croatia began their campaign with a wild 4-2 loss to England, but they redeemed themselves and their reputation in their second outing with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama. While the result wasn't entirely convincing, and Panama even created more shots on goal, it held immeasurable value for the Balkan team given the group situation. Substitute Ante Budimir sealed the triumph after halftime, perfectly converting a cross from Josip Stanišić.

Coach Zlatko Dalić, however, could also praise a significant improvement in defense in addition to the three points. After conceding four goals against the English, the Croatian defense functioned much more compactly, and goalkeeper Dominik Livaković recorded his first clean sheet of the tournament.

Furthermore, Martin Baturina continues his excellent form, having been the team's most active attacking player against Panama. His ability to penetrate defenses will be crucial in this match. The coaching staff's dilemma remains the composition of the attack, where Budimir, the hero of the last game, might get the nod over Petar Musa. Crucially, the team reports no new health issues and will be at full strength.

The African representative holds a more comfortable position after two matches, built primarily on excellent defensive work. Following an initial narrow 1-0 triumph over Panama, Ghana shocked the football world with a goalless draw against top favorites England. Under the guidance of experienced strategist Carlos Queiroz, the team was under immense pressure in that match, with barely 20% possession, yet their tactical discipline prevented their opponents from scoring a single goal.

Benjamin Asare brilliantly deputized for the injured Lawrence Ati Zigi in goal, making three crucial saves to secure a valuable point. However, while the defense is flawless and Ghana is among the few teams yet to concede, their offense has been sterile so far. In the first halves of both matches, the African team failed to register a single shot on target, and against England, they only threatened late in the game from a Prince Kwabena Adu breakaway.

Ghana has no reason to change its successful defensive strategy and organization before the final whistle. Croatia will likely push forward more, but they certainly won't take reckless risks, as even a point could be golden for them. In this encounter, psychology and big-tournament experience will play a huge role, as Croatians regularly demonstrate their ability to perform under immense pressure in decisive moments.

Although Ghana boasts a rock-solid backline, their attacking struggles could be limiting against such a seasoned opponent. An even and strictly tactical duel with minimal clear-cut chances is expected, in which the Balkan footballers should confirm their quality.