World Cup 2026 Croatia vs Ghana: Croatia in 4-2-3-1 with Modrić, Ghana in 4-3-3 with Partey

Croatia line up in a 4-2-3-1 system under head coach Zlatko Dalic. They call on their captain Luka Modrić, part of a five-man midfield line, and rely on Ivan Perišić’s experience in defence as well as Ante Budimir’s presence up front.

Ghana, for their part, operate in a 4-3-3 with Carlos Queiroz in charge. The midfield is built around Thomas Partey, a pillar of the team, while Kamaldeen Sulemana and Jordan Ayew are part of a quick and technical attacking trio.

This meeting could be decisive in the balance of Group L, where Croatia are looking to return to winning ways after a defeat and Ghana want to preserve their unbeaten record.

Reading Croatia’s XI

Zlatko Dalic presents a classic 4-2-3-1 formation focused on defensive solidity and creativity in midfield. Dominik Livaković will be in goal, protected by a back four made up of Josip Stanišić, Josip Šutalo, Marin Pongračić and Ivan Perišić. The latter brings defensive and attacking experience on the left flank.

In midfield, the double pivot of Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić is supported by Nikola Vlašić, Petar Sučić and Martin Baturina in the three attacking midfield roles. In attack, Ante Budimir is the central reference point in the role of a lone striker. This tactical framework allows Croatia to develop a balanced game between technical control and defensive aggression.

Reading Ghana’s XI

Head coach Carlos Queiroz lines up in a 4-3-3 geared more toward attack and midfield movement. Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare is protected by a back four consisting of Marvin Senaya, Jonas Adjei Adjetey, Derrick Luckassen and Gideon Mensah.

The midfield is formed by a solid trio with Thomas Partey, Elisha Owusu and Kwasi Sibo. This trio will have to manage the tempo and organize play to feed the attacking trio of Kamaldeen Sulemana, Jordan Ayew and Antoine Semenyo. They will bring pace and the ability to unsettle the opposing defence.

This setup encourages mobility and verticality, supporting Ghana’s ambitions to pick up important points in this tight group.