Croatia secured their place in the last 32 of the World Cup after a dramatic 2 to 1 win over already qualified Ghana in Philadelphia, with Nikola Vlasic scoring the decisive goal in the closing stages.
Zlatko Dalic’s team went into the match knowing that avoiding defeat would be enough to continue their campaign. However, Croatia did more than protect their position, producing a determined performance to finish second in Group L behind England, who defeated Panama in the other group fixture.
Croatia looked the more dangerous side for much of the first half and nearly opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Vlasic tried his luck from distance, only to see his effort brush past the outside of Benjamin Asare’s post.
Their pressure eventually paid off through Petar Sucic. The Inter Milan midfielder received a pass from Mateo Kovacic before driving a low right footed shot through Derrick Luckassen’s legs and into the bottom corner. It was a superb finish and a deserved lead for a Croatia side that had controlled the better chances before the break.
Ghana struggled to create clear openings in the first half and, for the third straight match, failed to register a shot on target before half time. Antoine Semenyo came closest for the Black Stars, dragging a low attempt just wide of the far post.
Carlos Queiroz’s side improved after the interval, helped by the introduction of Abdul Fatawu. The Leicester City winger brought more energy to Ghana’s attack and almost made an instant impact with a powerful effort that flew just over the bar.
The Black Stars found their equaliser in the 73rd minute when Luckassen headed in Ernest Nuamah’s delivery. The goal was checked for almost four minutes by the video assistant referee because Kwasi Sibo was standing in an offside position. Referee Drew Fischer eventually confirmed to the crowd that Sibo had not interfered with play, allowing the goal to stand.
With Ghana growing in confidence, Croatia had to respond. Mario Pasalic forced Asare into an excellent one handed save before Luka Modric delivered the corner that changed the match. Vlasic rose to meet it and guided his header into the net seven minutes from time.
The victory also ended Scotland’s remaining hopes of reaching the knockout stage. Croatia will now face Portugal in Toronto on Friday, 3 July at 00:00 BST, while Ghana will meet Colombia in Kansas City on Saturday, 4 July at 02:30 BST.
