Two European heavyweights collide in the World Cup last 32 as Portugal's unbeaten run meets Croatia's resilience. Can the 2016 champions overcome the 2018 runners-up?
In a clash that pits two of Europe's most decorated nations against each other, Portugal and Croatia meet in the Last 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match kicks off at 23:00 UTC on July 2, 2026, at a venue yet to be confirmed. Both sides enter this knockout fixture with contrasting journeys through the group stage, yet both harbour genuine ambitions of progressing deep into the tournament.
Summary
Portugal topped their group with an unbeaten record (1 win, 2 draws, 5 points), showing defensive solidity but occasional struggles to break down stubborn opponents. Croatia, meanwhile, finished second in their group with 6 points from 2 wins and 1 loss, displaying their trademark resilience but also vulnerability, particularly in a 4-2 defeat to England. This encounter promises to be a tactical chess match between two sides that know each other well from recent Nations League and European Championship meetings.
Team News & Form
Portugal come into this game on the back of a 1-1 draw with Congo DR, having earlier beaten Uzbekistan 5-0 and drawn 0-0 with Colombia. Their form has been characterized by a strong defence (only 1 goal conceded in 3 games) but a slight lack of cutting edge in the final third. Manager Roberto Martínez is likely to have a fully fit squad to choose from, with Cristiano Ronaldo expected to lead the line despite being used sparingly in the group stage.
Croatia's recent form is more mixed: they opened with a 2-1 win over Ghana, followed by a 1-0 victory against Panama, before a heavy 4-2 loss to England. That defeat exposed defensive frailties, but the midfield trio of Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, and Marcelo Brozović remains among the best in the world. Zlatko Dalić will be without any major injury concerns, though he may rotate his attack after the England setback.
Key Players
- Portugal: Bruno Fernandes – The Manchester United playmaker has been Portugal's creative hub, contributing goals and assists. His ability to unlock defences with through balls and long-range shots will be crucial against Croatia's compact shape.
- Portugal: Rúben Dias – The Manchester City centre-back anchors a defence that has conceded just once. His leadership and aerial prowess will be tested by Croatia's physical forwards.
- Croatia: Luka Modrić – Even at 40, the Real Madrid legend remains the heartbeat of this team. His passing range and game management will be vital in controlling the tempo against Portugal's high press.
- Croatia: Josko Gvardiol – The Manchester City defender is equally comfortable at left-back or centre-back. His pace and ball-playing ability could be key in nullifying Portugal's wide threats.
Predicted Lineups
Portugal (4-3-3): Diogo Costa; João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Gonçalo Inácio, Nuno Mendes; Bruno Fernandes, João Palhinha, Bernardo Silva; Rafael Leão, Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix.
Croatia (4-3-3): Dominik Livaković; Josip Juranović, Josko Gvardiol, Borna Sosa, Borna Barišić; Luka Modrić, Marcelo Brozović, Mateo Kovačić; Ivan Perišić, Andrej Kramarić, Mario Pašalić.
Key Battles
The midfield duel will be decisive. Portugal's energetic trio of Palhinha, Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva will look to disrupt Croatia's metronome, Modrić. If Palhinha can stifle Modrić's influence, Portugal could gain control. Conversely, Croatia's midfield will aim to bypass the press and feed Kramarić in behind.
Another intriguing battle is on the flanks. Portugal's Leão and Mendes offer pace and directness down the left, while Croatia's Juranović and Perišić provide experience and defensive solidity. The outcome of these individual contests could swing the match.
Head-to-Head
Portugal and Croatia have met 8 times, with Portugal winning 4, Croatia 2, and 2 draws. Their most recent encounter was a 2-1 Portugal victory in the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League. However, Croatia famously eliminated Portugal in the Round of 16 of Euro 2016. Historically, matches between these sides have been tight, with four of the last five meetings decided by a single goal.
Score Prediction
Given Portugal's defensive solidity and Croatia's occasional lapses, this match is likely to be a low-scoring affair. Portugal's superior depth and home-continent advantage (if playing in Europe) could edge it. Prediction: Portugal 2-1 Croatia (after extra time).
Where to Watch
Fans can catch the action live on major broadcasters worldwide. For UK viewers, the match will be shown on ITV and BBC. US viewers can tune in via Fox Sports and Telemundo. Streaming options include Fixtures page for official links. Check local listings for kick-off times in your region.
