Croatia's Group B opponents at the 2026 World Cup
Croatia are in Group B at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 12-group format means three matches in 12 days, with the top two plus the eight best third-placed teams advancing to the new Round of 32.
The 2026 World Cup expands to 48 teams across 12 groups of four. Group B contains Croatia and three other nations drawn from across the FIFA confederations. The exact opponents come from the official FIFA draw.
Group B format
- Three matches per team, played over 12 days.
- Top two from Group B qualify directly for the Round of 32.
- The eight best third-placed teams across all 12 groups also advance.
- That means even a third-placed finish in Group B could be enough — but is not guaranteed.
Tie-breakers in Group B
If teams are level on points after three matches, FIFA's tie-breaker hierarchy applies: goal difference, then goals scored, then head-to-head record, then disciplinary fair-play points, then drawing of lots. The expansion to 48 teams makes goal difference more critical than ever — third place qualification often comes down to one or two goals.
What Croatia need to advance
Croatia (35/1) face a tough task to advance — likely needs at least one upset win and a strong goal difference. Coach Zlatko Dalić's preparation in the final friendlies (May–June 2026) will indicate the team's plan.
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