Croatia overpowered the Black Stars of Ghana to secure their place in the round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Black Stars, defeated in Philadelphia, still advance thanks to their ranking as one of the best third-placed teams.

Philadelphia experienced a thrilling match on Saturday night, as the stadium was packed to the rafters.

Croatia secured their place in the round of 32 by defeating Ghana 2-1 in the final match of Group L, a game that lived up to expectations until the very last minutes.

Unlike the first two matches, head coach of Ghana set up his team for an offensive display but the Croatians took the lead through a Petar Sucic long drive.

Spirited and improved performance from the start of the second resulted in the equalizer from Derrick Luckassen even after VAR had to step in to check the goal.

However, Ghana couldn’t hold on as Vlasic headed the winner for Croatia from a corner kick after Benjamin Asare superbly parried away Palasic’s shot.

The round of 32 begins on Sunday, June 28, 2026, when South Africa takes on Canada.