What's Happening?
Luka Modric, the captain of Croatia's national soccer team, has been named in the squad for the 2026 World Cup, marking his fifth appearance in the tournament. Despite suffering a cheekbone injury last month that ended his club season with AC Milan, Modric is expected
to be fit for Croatia's opening match against England on June 17. The 40-year-old midfielder, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2018, is the most capped player in Croatian history with 196 international appearances. Croatia's coach, Zlatko Dalic, has selected a 26-man roster that includes experienced players such as Ivan Perisic, Mateo Kovacic, and Mario Pasalic. The team, which reached the World Cup final in 2018 and finished third in 2022, will also face Panama and Ghana in Group L.
Why It's Important?
Modric's inclusion in the World Cup squad is significant for Croatia as he brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. His presence could be pivotal in Croatia's quest to advance beyond the group stage and potentially replicate or surpass their previous World Cup successes. For Modric, this tournament offers a chance to further cement his legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation. The decision to include him despite his recent injury highlights his importance to the team and the confidence the coaching staff has in his ability to recover and perform at the highest level. This development also underscores the resilience and determination of seasoned athletes to overcome physical setbacks and continue competing at an elite level.
What's Next?
As Croatia prepares for the World Cup, the focus will be on ensuring Modric's full recovery and readiness for the tournament. The team's performance in the group stage will be crucial, with their opening match against England setting the tone for their campaign. Success in the group stage could see Modric reaching the milestone of 200 international caps, further solidifying his status in Croatian football history. The team's progress will be closely watched by fans and analysts, with expectations high following their strong performances in recent World Cups. The outcome of Croatia's matches will also influence the strategies and adjustments made by the coaching staff as they aim for another deep run in the tournament.
