Croatia’s achievements defy their size: World Cup runners-up in 2018 and third in 2022, marshalled by the brilliant Luka Modrić. A golden era for a nation of under four million.

The road ahead

Group game 1 · Wed 17 June

at England2–4 L

Group game 2 · Tue 23 June

at Panama1–0 W

Group game 3 · Sat 27 June

vs Ghana2–1 W

Three group games are guaranteed; the knockout steps unlock as the team advances.