Team: Croatia

Croatia have punched far above their weight at recent World Cups, reaching the final in 2018 and the third place playoff in 2022. The spine of that squad, built around Luka Modric in midfield, remains at the core of the current team. Younger players including Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic have established themselves at elite clubs and are ready to lead the next generation. For a nation of fewer than four million people, Croatia's recent World Cup record is extraordinary. They arrive in North America with the belief and organization that has made them one of the tournament's most reliable and respected performers.

Croatia confirmed their 2026 place by coming from behind to defeat the Faroe Islands 3-1 in Rijeka, locking up top spot in UEFA Group L with a match to spare.