Vlašic Strikes Late as Croatia Edge Ghana 2-1 to Book Knockout Spot

Croatia booked their place in the World Cup knockout stage after a tense 2-1 victory over Ghana , with a late winner from Nikola Vlašic deciding a gripping Group L clash in Philadelphia.

Croatia struck first through Luka Sucic, who produced a brilliant long-range finish in the 31st minute to give his side a deserved lead. Despite controlling large phases of the game, Croatia were unable to build a bigger cushion before halftime.

Ghana, already assured of a place in the round of 32 , fought back strongly in the second half. Derrick Luckassen levelled the score in the 73rd minute with a precise bottom-corner finish , briefly shifting momentum and energising their supporters.

But Croatia responded with urgency and composure. In the 83rd minute, Nikola Vlašic rose to meet a corner from Luka Modric , powering a decisive header into the net to restore Croatia’s lead and secure victory.

Croatia finished second in Group L behind England , confirming their progression to the knockout rounds. Ghana showed flashes of quality, particularly through Antoine Semenyo, but could not find a late equaliser against a disciplined Croatian defence.

The result once again highlights Croatia’s knockout-stage consistency , while Ghana exit the group stage with positives despite the defeat.