Croatia secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after defeating Ghana 2-1 in a thrilling Group L clash in Philadelphia. Nikola Vlašić scored a dramatic late winner to send Croatia through as group runners-up behind England.

Although Ghana had already qualified before the match, the defeat meant they finished as one of the best third-placed teams. Croatia's victory also ended Scotland's hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

Croatia dominate the first half

Croatia started the match with confidence and looked the more dangerous side. Nikola Vlašić nearly opened the scoring in the 17th minute when his powerful long-range effort shaved the outside of Benjamin Asare's post.

The breakthrough finally came through Petar Sučić. Mateo Kovačić found the midfielder with a precise pass, and Sučić drilled a low right-footed shot through Derrick Luckassen's legs and into the bottom corner.

Ghana struggled to create clear chances before the break. Antoine Semenyo came closest with a low effort that drifted just wide, but the Black Stars failed to register a shot on target in the first half for the third consecutive group-stage match.

Ghana respond after halftime

Ghana looked far more dangerous after the introduction of Abdul Fatawu early in the second half. The Leicester City winger immediately tested Croatia with a powerful strike that flew just over the crossbar.

The pressure finally paid off in the 73rd minute. Ernest Nuamah delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area, and Derrick Luckassen headed home the equaliser.

The goal required a lengthy VAR review that lasted almost four minutes. Officials checked whether Kwasi Sibo, who stood in an offside position, interfered with play. After the review, referee Drew Fischer confirmed the goal would stand.

Vlašić delivers late winner

The equaliser gave Ghana momentum as both teams searched for a winner. Mario Pašalić almost restored Croatia's lead, but Benjamin Asare produced an outstanding one-handed save to keep the score level. Croatia continued to push forward, and the decisive moment arrived seven minutes from time.

Luka Modrić delivered a perfectly placed corner into the box, and Nikola Vlašić rose highest to head the ball into the net and seal a crucial victory. The late goal guaranteed Croatia second place in Group L and a place in the knockout stage.

Knockout fixtures confirmed

Croatia will face Portugal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after finishing as Group L runners-up. Ghana also progressed despite the defeat. They qualified as one of the best third-placed teams and will meet Group K winners Colombia in the knockout stage.