Croatia World Cup 2026 Squad: Zlatko Dalić’s Official 26-Man List
Croatia has officially unveiled its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Finalists in 2018 and semi-finalists in 2022, Croatia once again hopes to surprise the football world led by legendary captain Luka Modrić.
Despite an aging core, Croatia still relies on huge international experience and several players competing at the highest level in Europe.
Croatia’s 26-Man Squad
Goalkeepers
- Dominik Livaković
- Ivica Ivušić
- Nediljko Labrović
Defenders
- Joško Gvardiol
- Josip Šutalo
- Borna Sosa
- Josip Juranović
- Marin Pongračić
- Martin Erlić
- Josip Stanišić
Midfielders
- Luka Modrić
- Mateo Kovačić
- Marcelo Brozović
- Lovro Majer
- Mario Pašalić
- Luka Sučić
Forwards
- Andrej Kramarić
- Bruno Petković
- Ante Budimir
- Ivan Perišić
- Luka Ivanušec
- Martin Baturina
Luka Modrić Still Leading Croatia
At 40 years old, Luka Modrić will likely play in his final World Cup. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner remains the technical and emotional leader of this Croatian side.
Alongside him, Croatia still counts on experienced players such as Mateo Kovačić, Marcelo Brozović and Ivan Perišić.
Croatia Remains a Dangerous Tournament Team
For years, Croatia has impressed with its ability to perform in major international tournaments.
Tactically disciplined, mentally strong and comfortable in knockout matches, Croatia remains an extremely difficult team to face despite having less individual talent than some football superpowers.
Croatia’s Group at the 2026 World Cup
Croatia will play in Group L alongside:
- England
- Ghana
- Panama
The opening match against England is already considered one of the biggest clashes of the group stage.
Footlab Analysis of Croatia
Using Footlab tools, fans can analyze:
- recent form of Croatian internationals,
- attacking and defensive statistics,
- qualification probabilities,
- collective dynamics,
- and odds movements before the tournament.
Even without being among the main favorites, Croatia remains one of the toughest teams to eliminate in major competitions.