Croatia face Portugal at Toronto Stadium in the early hours of Friday morning in the World Cup last 32, targeting the kind of knockout upset that has defined their reputation over the past decade.
Zlatko Dalic’s side reached this point the hard way. A 4-2 opening defeat to England left them needing back-to-back wins. They delivered — beating Panama 1-0 and Ghana 2-1 to advance as Group L runners-up. Croatia have reached the semi-finals or beyond at each of their last three World Cup appearances. They do not fear the occasion.
Croatia team news
Dalic has no injury concerns and makes one significant change from the Ghana XI. Josko Gvardiol returns at left-back after his surprise omission against Ghana. The Manchester City defender’s pace and defensive quality are essential against the width Portugal carry through Neto and Felix. His return shifts Ivan Perisic further forward into the left wing position, giving Croatia greater attacking threat on that flank.
Dominik Livakovic continues in goal. The back four of Josip Stanisic, Josip Sutalo, Marin Pongracic and Gvardiol provides the defensive structure. Luka Modric anchors midfield alongside Mateo Kovacic, a partnership that now carries over 300 combined international caps. Petar Sucic completes the midfield trio after scoring against Ghana and strengthening his case for a permanent starting role.
Martin Baturina operates in the number ten position, his movement in tight spaces one of Croatia’s most dangerous attacking tools. Ante Budimir leads the line after his decisive goal against Panama. Perisic provides the width and experience on the left.
Modric, now 40 years old, made history against Ghana as the oldest player to register a World Cup assist. His reading of the game and delivery from set pieces remain as sharp as ever, and his individual battle with Joao Neves is one of the most compelling midfield matchups of the knockout round.
Croatia predicted lineup
Croatia possible starting XI (4-3-3): Livakovic; Stanisic, Sutalo, Pongracic, Gvardiol; Sucic, Modric, Kovacic; Baturina, Budimir, Perisic
When will the match kick off?
The FIFA World Cup last-32 match kicks off at 00:00 BST on Friday, 3 July 2026.
How to watch Portugal vs Croatia?
The match will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK.
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