CRO

Croatia

Eliminated in the round of 32

Lost 1-2 to Portugal

Croatia are one of the great small football nations, the 2018 finalists led by captain Luka Modric, 40 years old.

But they are out, beaten 1-2 by Portugal in the round of 32.

They led 1-0 and were seconds from extra time, but Portugal scored twice late to win it.

Croatia's 2026 World Cup matches

Manager: Zlatko Dalić

Croatia are out, and it was one of the most painful ways to go.

They finished 2nd in Group L on 6 points, behind the winners England.

They lost their first game 2-4 to England, then beat Panama 1-0 and Ghana 2-1 to reach the knockouts.

Then came the round of 32 against Portugal, a huge game between two proud teams.

Croatia took the lead when Ivan Perisic scored in the 53rd minute to make it 1-0.

They held that lead for a long time, but then, seconds from the end, Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty to make it 1-1.

And just seconds before extra time, Goncalo Ramos ended their dream with a header to make it 2-1 for Portugal.

This is very likely the last World Cup for Luka Modric, 40 years old, one of the greatest midfield players ever.

He has led this team for years, and a whole country loves him for it.

So more than anything, this is a goodbye to Modric, and Croatia go home saying farewell to their greatest player.

Last 12 months before the tournament. Source: international match records.

Croatia were in Group L with England, Ghana and Panama. They finished 2nd in the group.

Croatia are managed by Zlatko Dalić.

Croatia's best World Cup result is Runners-up in 2018.

No, Croatia were knocked out in the round of 32 by Portugal.

Croatia are ranked 13 in the FIFA world rankings.