Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalić has shared his thoughts following the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which placed his side in Group L alongside England, Ghana and Panama.
The draw, conducted in Washington D.C., has produced what many observers consider one of the tournament’s most competitive groups, featuring a blend of European pedigree, African flair and CONCACAF resilience.
While acknowledging the quality within the group, Dalić expressed confidence in Croatia’s ability to rise to the challenge and achieve their primary objective at the tournament.
The former World Cup finalists also appeared to downplay Ghana as a major concern, though he was careful to stress his respect for the Black Stars and their playing style.
“We don’t care too much about Ghana. I know my friend Asamoah Gyan, we played together when I was in LA,” Dalić told 3Sports.
“I know there will be tough games. Ghana’s team is very strong and fast, and it is not going to be easy for us.”
The Croatian coach emphasized that his side’s focus remains on progression from the group stage rather than individual opponents.
“Our goal is to go past the group stage. We’ll take it step by step. It won’t be easy. Full respect to Ghana, they will not be easy opponents,” he added.
Croatia will open their 2026 World Cup campaign on June 17 with a high-profile clash against England, a repeat of their memorable 2018 World Cup semifinal encounter. The fixture is expected to take place in either Dallas or Toronto, setting the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested Group L.
With England, Ghana and Panama all capable of causing upsets, Group L is shaping up to be one of the standout pools of the expanded 48-team World Cup, where consistency and discipline will be key to securing qualification for the knockout rounds.
