Croatia's knockout hopes hinge on Modrić's record assist

Croatia secured progression to the World Cup round of 16 after a 2-1 victory over Ghana, with veteran Luka Modrić marking his 200th cap and becoming the oldest player (40 years, 291 days) to record an assist on the tournament. The 2-1 win over Ghana placed Croatia behind England in Group L. The victory secured Croatia’s progression to the knockout stage. Croatia, the 2018 World Cup finalist and two-time third-place nation, finished second in the group. Luka Modrić delivered a corner that found Nikola Vlasić for the decisive header. Vlasić, a midfielder for Torino, converted the set piece into the match‑winning goal.

Serie A stars dominate Croatia line‑up as England reshuffles

The appearance marked Modrić’s 200th cap for the Croatian national side, known as Kockasti. At 40 years and 291 days, he became the oldest player to register an assist at a World Cup. Earlier, Croatia endured a heavy defeat to group‑topping England. The loss underscored the challenge of facing the tournament favorites. Despite the setback, the experienced squad, led by Modrić, will look to build on the victory. Croatia’s next challenge this summer will be the knockout round.