Croatia in driver's seat as they lead Ghana by a goal at half-time

Croatia took control of proceedings as they went into the break with a 1-0 lead over Ghana in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match at Philadelphia Stadium. Petar Sucic got his name on the scoresheet with a fine first-half strike for the Croatians.

Ghana dominated the opening 10 minutes of the game. They cut off Croatia's passing lanes, preventing them from building attacks, and repeatedly overcame Croatia's high press by spreading the ball out to the wings.

The play largely revolved around midfield, with the ball rarely reaching either penalty area. Ghana enjoyed more possession and controlled the early exchanges.

However, after the opening 15 minutes, Croatia gradually settled into the game. They began building from the back with greater composure and started showing more attacking intent. Unlike in their previous two matches, Ghana's defence was not as compact, often shifting from a 4-1-2-3 formation to a 3-2-2-3 shape.

Croatia created their first real chance in the 18th minute. A neat move down the left flank saw Ante Budimir square the ball to Nikola Vlasic on the edge of the box. Vlasic struck a low effort towards the bottom corner, but it clipped the outside of the post and went wide.

Four minutes later, Croatia won a free-kick around 35 yards from goal. Luka Modric floated the ball into the penalty area after a brief delay caused by pushing and shoving inside the box, but Marin Pongracic's header sailed over the crossbar.

The breakthrough Croatia had been searching for finally arrived in the 31st minute. Petar Sucic received the ball around 25 yards from goal and was afforded enough time to shift it onto his stronger foot before unleashing a low strike into the bottom corner.

The goal did little to change Ghana's approach, but they still struggled to create meaningful opportunities in the final third until the 38th minute. A long throw from the left was initially worked backwards instead of being launched into the box. The ball eventually returned to Antoine Semenyo, who finally managed to get a shot away, but his effort flashed just inches wide of the post. It was Ghana's first attempt of the match.

Ghana fashioned a couple more openings before the break but failed to test the Croatian goalkeeper as Croatia headed into half-time with a deserved one-goal advantage.

For Croatia, the match carries added significance after a bumpy start to their campaign. They were beaten by England in their opener, and although they bounced back with a win over Panama, they are yet to truly prove themselves against a major opponent. With just 3 points so far, they need a win to cement their knockout spot. 

A convincing result against Ghana could strengthen Croatia's credentials ahead of the knockouts. Ghana held England to a goalless draw before defeating Panama, making them a far sterner test. Croatia will be hoping to seize the opportunity to build momentum and make a strong statement before the knockout rounds.

Starting Lineup

Croatia: Dominik Livakovic, Josip Stanisic, Marin Pongracic, Josip Sutalo, Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric, Nikola Vlasic, Martin Baturina, Petar Sučić, Ante Budimir, Ivan Perišić

Ghana: Benjamin Asare, Jonas Adjetey, Gideon Mensah, Derrick Luckassen, Marvin Senaya, Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Antoine Semenyo, Elisha Owusu, Jordan Ayew, Kamaldeen Sulemana