Croatia secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada by coming from behind to beat the Faroe Islands 3‑1 at home on Friday.
The match began with a shock when Geza David Turi gave the Faroe Islands the lead in the 16th minute. Croatia responded swiftly, with Josko Gvardiol equalising seven minutes later with a powerful strike. Petar Musa put Croatia ahead in the 57th minute, and Nikola Vlasic sealed the victory with a composed finish in the 70th minute.
The win lifted Croatia to 19 points in Group L, making it impossible for second‑place Czech Republic, on 13 points with one game remaining, to catch them.
For the Faroe Islands, ranked 127th by FIFA, the result marked the end of a commendable campaign, earning 12 points and challenging for a top-two finish in the group.
Also Read: Morocco First African Nation to Seal 2026 World Cup Spot
Team captain Luka Modrić, 40, will lead Croatia into his fifth World Cup and tenth major tournament. He described the qualification as “a fantastic feeling” and emphasised that, for a nation of just 3.8 million people, the achievement should not be taken for granted.
With World Cup qualification secured, Croatia now turn their attention to preparations for next year’s finals, while the Faroe Islands must explore alternative routes if available.
