When is Brazil vs Croatia at the 2026 World Cup
Brazil vs Croatia is one of the standout potential fixtures at the 2026 World Cup. Brazil are in Group C (odds 6/1), and Croatia are in Group B (odds 35/1). They can only meet in the knockout stages unless drawn together.
Tournament knockouts are designed to keep top seeds apart in the early rounds. For Brazil versus Croatia to happen, the bracket has to align — usually possible from the Round of 16 onward.
Head-to-head context
| Brazil | Croatia | |
|---|---|---|
| Confederation | CONMEBOL | UEFA |
| Group | C | B |
| Star player | Vinícius Júnior | Luka Modrić |
| Head coach | Dorival Júnior | Zlatko Dalić |
| Odds to win World Cup | 6/1 | 35/1 |
Tactical clash
Brazil's South American flair versus Croatia's European structure sets up a clash of styles. Vinícius Júnior versus Luka Modrić is the marquee individual matchup.
Path to meet
Brazil (Group C) and Croatia (Group B) are in different groups; they can meet in the knockout rounds — most likely Round of 16 or later, depending on group finishes.
Where it could be played
The 2026 World Cup uses 16 host cities. Knockout matches between Brazil and Croatia would be played in one of the major venues — MetLife Stadium (final), AT&T Stadium, SoFi Stadium, Estadio Azteca and so on. The exact venue depends on the bracket position.
Outlook
Brazil five-time World Cup champions, the most of any nation. Croatia finalists in 2018 and bronze medallists in 2022.