Croatia defeated Ghana 2-1 on Saturday night in Philadelphia to secure second place in Group L at the World Cup 2026. Nikola Vlasic’s late header proved decisive after Petar Sucic and Derrick Luckassen had traded earlier goals.
Petar Sucic opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a long-range strike that beat Ghana goalkeeper Benjamin Asare. The goal put Croatia top of the group at that stage.
Derrick Luckassen equalised for Ghana in the 73rd minute with a volley from Ernest Nuamah’s free-kick. A four-minute VAR review confirmed the goal.
Vlasic restored Croatia’s lead seven minutes from time with a header from Luka Modric’s delivery. Former Scotland striker Ally McCoist described the finish as “wonderful” and said the goalkeeper had “no chance”.
The result leaves Croatia on six points behind England, who finished top after beating Panama. Ghana remain in contention for the round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams.
