Croatia reach the 2026 World Cup with a confident comeback win over Faroe Islands.
They only needed a point from a draw to qualify, but Luka Modrić’s team chose the dominant route. Croatia went behind early, yet never lost control of the match. They recovered quickly and secured a 3–1 victory that confirmed their World Cup ticket as the third European side and the 30th team overall.
From the opening minutes at Rujevica Stadium, Croatia were the stronger team. They held 73 percent possession and took 18 shots, with five on target. Faroe Islands managed little but still struck first in the 16th minute when Geza David Turi scored against the run of play.
The response came fast. Joško Gvardiol equalised in the 23rd minute. After halftime, Petar Musa gave Croatia the lead in the 57th minute. The final blow arrived in the 70th minute when Ivan Perišić sent a cross to the far post and Nikola Vlašić finished with a clean volley for 3–1.
Croatia were already top of Group L in the European qualifiers before this match. They now have 19 points from six wins and one draw in seven games. Czech Republic sit second with 13 points, while Faroe Island are third with 12 points from eight matches.
Gvardiol said the team is proud to qualify with a game to spare. He added that they will travel to Montenegro with less pressure, but still aim for three points because every match matters in preparation for next summer.
England were the first European team to qualify, followed by Kylian Mbappé’s France. With Croatia joining them, 30 teams have now secured their place in the 2026 World Cup. Thirteen spots remain. Forty-three nations will qualify directly, while five more will enter through the play-offs. Europe can send up to 16 teams.
