A rainy day in Pennsylvania brought challenges for the 65,000 fans at the Philadelphia Stadium, where the lack of a roof raised concerns about their comfort. However, what was initially expected to be a lackluster match turned out to be quite the opposite, with Luka Modric showcasing his enduring talent and leaving fans with positive memories.
This match saw both Croatia and Ghana progress from Group L, with Croatia rightfully securing three points due to impressive performances, especially from Petar Sucic and Nikola Vlasic. Ghana, making it to the knockout rounds for the first time since 2010, earned their place even as Carlos Queiroz expressed skepticism about the expanded World Cup format, describing it as “I congratulate my players,”
Zlatko Dalic, the head coach of Croatia, faced the task of balancing enthusiasm with caution. He was eager to avoid giving the impression of being overly thrilled about advancing to the round of 32, yet he aimed to silence critics suggesting that his team had lost their edge. He stated that players like Modric are returning to their peak form reminiscent of their success in Russia eight years ago.
“It was a difficult match but Croatia played excellently. We are back to where we were eight years ago again. [To qualify] was our first step, now we need to forget it. I have said we looked better in training than in matches, but I believe in the players and they have achieved tonight.” Dalic remarked. “It’s a coin with two faces”
Prior to the match, there were doubts regarding the motivation of both teams, given that a draw would likely secure advancement for both. However, Croatia came out determined to win, with Dalic encouraging his players to stretch the Ghanaian defense, which was known for its resilience.
Croatia’s attacks were particularly dangerous on the flanks, with Ivan Perisic excelling at left-back and the team proving effective from long range. This raised questions about why England had not been more aggressive against Ghana’s goal. In the 13th minute, Vlasic struck the post from distance, and shortly after, Sucic made his mark, scoring just before the half-hour mark. Mateo Kovacic set up Sucic at the center of the pitch, and the Inter player executed a precise low shot from 30 yards, slipping through defender Marvin Senaya’s legs and finding the net.
While this goal did not alter Ghana’s standing in the tournament, it did seem to ignite some pride in Queiroz. After the match, he expressed his doubts about the benefits of the expanded World Cup format, even as it allowed his team to move on from third place in their group.
“I do believe that what really has huge value is what is rare. I never see in my life ordinary things that come with huge value. The number of teams qualifying can turn this competition into a vulgar, ordinary competition. In South America it’s already harder not to qualify.” Queiroz commented. “Modric was a role model of how things should be,”
Despite his reservations about the format, Queiroz made significant changes at halftime, introducing two substitutes that led to Ghana’s most attacking phase of the tournament. In the 73rd minute, they managed to equalize after a free-kick from Ernest Nuamah, another substitute, was expertly converted by Derrick Luckassen. The defender, who had been a constant threat throughout the match, skillfully redirected the ball low into the goal. After initially disallowing the goal for offside, referee Drew Fischer was persuaded by the video assistant referee to review the decision and subsequently awarded the goal.
The momentum continued to shift as the match neared its conclusion. In the final ten minutes, Croatia found a renewed intensity, and substitute Mario Pasalic unleashed a powerful shot that required an exceptional save from Benjamin Asare. Following the corner, Modric delivered a precise cross that found Vlasic in the midst of a crowded box, allowing him to score with an unerring header.
This goal marked a historic moment for Modric, making him the oldest player to record an assist at the World Cup. In added time, when Abdul Fatawu attempted to weave through the Croatian defense, it was Modric who intervened to reclaim the ball. His coach praised him wholeheartedly after the match.
“He is aware that this is his last World Cup and he is trying to do his best to say goodbye.” Dalic said. “He is aware that this is his last World Cup and he is trying to do his best to say goodbye.”
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