Croatia Advances to FIFA World Cup Round of 32 with Late Goal Against Ghana

In a nail-biting match, Croatia defeated Ghana 2-1, with Nikola Vlasic scoring a late header to secure their place in the FIFA World Cup round of 32. Despite the loss, Ghana also advanced as one of the best third-placed teams. The match featured a stunning opener from Petar Sucic and a controversial equalizer from Derrick Luckassen, confirmed after a VAR review. Croatia's victory not only secured their advancement but also ended Scotland's hopes of progressing. Ghana will now face either Portugal or Colombia in their next match. Read on for a detailed recap of this thrilling encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 28, 2026, 05:40 IST

Croatia Secures Victory Over Ghana

Philadelphia [US], June 28: In a thrilling encounter, Croatia triumphed over Ghana with a 2-1 scoreline, thanks to a late header from Nikola Vlasic, ensuring their progression to the FIFA World Cup round of 32.

Vlasic's decisive goal came in the 83rd minute, connecting with a corner taken by Luka Modric, just moments after Derrick Luckassen had equalized for Ghana from a free-kick, negating Petar Sucic's stunning long-range strike that had initially put Croatia ahead.

Despite the loss, Ghana advanced to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams in the tournament. Croatia's win also dashed Scotland's hopes of moving forward.

England topped Group L following their 2-0 win against Panama, while Croatia secured the second spot with their victory over Ghana. Ghana had already qualified prior to the last group match, making it through as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams.

Susic opened the scoring for Croatia in the 31st minute with a well-placed shot into the bottom left corner. Ghana responded strongly in the second half, and Luckassen's header from Ernest Nuamah's cross was confirmed as a goal after a lengthy VAR check.

As the match neared its conclusion, Vlasic's header from Modric's precise delivery sealed Croatia's second victory in Group L, securing their place in the round of 32.

Ghana is set to face the winners of Group K, either Portugal or Colombia, on Friday in Kansas City.