Croatia Makes Key Changes Ahead of World Cup Clash with Ghana

Croatia and Ghana Prepare for Final Group Match

Philadelphia [US], June 28: In a crucial FIFA World Cup Group L match, Croatia has opted to exclude Josko Gvardiol from their lineup, implementing three changes ahead of their encounter with Ghana this Saturday in Philadelphia. Ghana, having already secured advancement to the next stage, also made three adjustments to their squad.

With a win essential for Croatia to ensure their progression to the knockout phase, coach Zlatko Dalic has decided to give Ante Budimir and Nikola Vlasic their first starts of the tournament, alongside the return of Petar Sucic.

On the Ghanaian side, under the guidance of coach Carlos Queiroz, Kamaldeen Sulemana has been introduced into the attack, while Derrick Luckassen steps in for Jerome Opoku in defense.

Notably, Ivan Perisic is set to achieve his 20th appearance in the FIFA World Cup, with all matches played as a starter. Among outfield players, only legends like Paolo Maldini (23 matches), Diego Maradona (21), and Uwe Seeler (21) have more World Cup starts, according to OptaJoe.

In another Group L matchup, England has already qualified for the round of 32 and will face Panama in their concluding group game.

Lineups:

Croatia: Dominik Livakovic, Josip Stanisic, Marin Pongracic, Josip Sutalo, Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric, Ante Budimir, Nikola Vlasic, Ivan Perisic, Martin Baturina, Petar Sucic.

Ghana: Benjamin Asare, Jonas Adjetey, Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, Gideon Mensah, Elisha Owusu, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Derrick Luckassen, Marvin Senaya.