What's Happening?
Croatia has announced its squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Luka Modric set to participate in his fifth tournament. Coach Zlatko Dalic has selected a 26-man roster that includes notable players such as Ivan Perisic and goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.
Modric, who recently suffered a cheekbone injury, is expected to be fit for Croatia's opening match against England on June 17. The team will also face Panama and Ghana in Group L. Modric, a former Ballon d'Or winner, is Croatia's most capped player with 196 appearances and aims to reach 200 caps during the tournament.
Why It's Important?
Luka Modric's inclusion in the squad highlights his enduring influence and leadership within the Croatian team. His experience and skill are crucial as Croatia aims to replicate or surpass its past successes, including reaching the World Cup final in 2018 and securing third place in 2022. The announcement of the squad also underscores Croatia's strategic blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, which could impact their performance in the tournament. The team's composition and Modric's participation are significant for fans and stakeholders invested in Croatia's World Cup journey.
What's Next?
Croatia will begin its World Cup campaign against England, a match that will test the team's readiness and Modric's fitness post-injury. The team's performance in the group stage will be critical in determining their advancement in the tournament. Observers will be keen to see how Croatia's mix of veteran and new players performs on the world stage, potentially influencing future team selections and strategies.
