Luka Modric's World Cup Journey May Have Concluded After Croatia's Exit
Croatia's Heartbreaking Exit from FIFA World Cup 2026
Toronto [Canada], July 3: Croatia's head coach, Zlatko Dalic, has suggested that veteran midfielder Luka Modric might have played his last match in the FIFA World Cup, expressing his disappointment over the team's exit following a 2-1 defeat to Portugal on Thursday (local time).
After Croatia's elimination in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Dalic remarked that this moment likely signifies the conclusion of an era for one of Croatia's most celebrated players.
“This was probably his last World Cup,” Dalic stated regarding Luka Modric. “I’m saddened that it ended this way.”
Despite the emotional conclusion to their campaign, Dalic emphasized that the team is not facing a decline but is instead undergoing a transition. He highlighted the rise of young talents within the squad who are beginning to demonstrate their capabilities at the highest level.
“I’m not concerned about the future of the Croatian team,” Dalic added. “We have many young players coming in, and some of them showcased their quality today.”
He characterized this phase as the end of a remarkable chapter for Croatian football, while also indicating that new opportunities lie ahead as the team prepares for the next international cycle.
“We’ve reached the conclusion of a wonderful era,” he remarked. “And new beginnings await us.”
When questioned about his future as the national team coach, Dalic replied, “Only time will tell what will happen in the next World Cup, but we’ll discuss it in Croatia.”
Portugal made a stunning comeback after an early setback, securing a thrilling 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32. Substitute Goncalo Ramos became the hero of the match, scoring a stoppage-time goal that propelled Roberto Martinez’s team into the Round of 16.
Croatia initially took the lead with Ivan Perisic, who became the nation's all-time leading World Cup scorer, before Cristiano Ronaldo equalized from the penalty spot following a VAR review.
Additionally, Croatia had two goals disallowed for offside, including a late equalizer deep into stoppage time, as Portugal managed to hold on and set up an all-Iberian Round of 16 clash against Spain. This match also potentially marked the end of Luka Modric's illustrious World Cup career.