Croatia
- Croatia have won two and lost three of their last five in all competitions.
- Croatia have conceded five goals in their last two matches.
- Croatia are not in a great position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup but could be going home already if they lose this weekend's Group L 2026 fixture against Ghana, who are currently second on three points.
- Zlatko Dalic's side, who are clear favorites here at 1.62, have had a mixed start to their campaign, losing 4-2 away to England in their opening Group L 2026 matchup, then beating Slovenia 2-1 at home.
- Dalic's men will be the dominant side in terms of possession and control in Philadelphia, as they usually are, and they have the quality and experience in midfield to create many chances.
- The likes of Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic are the playmakers that can dictate play, but Ghana can make life awkward for them by remaining compact and disciplined in defense.
Ghana
- Ghana are winless in four away matches (D1, L3).
- Caleb Yirenkyi has been in form for Ghana.
- The Black Stars drew Wales 1-1 away in a friendly before their opening 1-0 World Cup win against Panama at home.
- Carlos Queiroz has made Ghana hard to beat with his pragmatic approach, which makes the Black Stars tough to break down, but also a threat on the break and in set-piece situations.
Key Players
- Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic
- The likes of Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic are the playmakers that can dictate play.
- Ivan Perisic
- Ivan Perisic has one assist in the World Cup and has the ability to unlock defences from wide areas for Croatia.
- Martin Baturina
- Martin Baturina has one goal in one World Cup appearance and is a solid bet to score at any time against Ghana.
- Caleb Yirenkyi
- Caleb Yirenkyi has been in form for Ghana.
Betting Insights
- Croatia are the clear favorites at 1.62.
- Ghana could be good value in the double chance market if the odds lengthen from their current 5.8 due to their away form.
- A safer option is Under 2.5 goals at 1.79, as Queiroz's team will likely sit deep and allow Dalic's side to play a measured game.
Prediction
Croatia can edge this contest, but they are likely to have a few nervous moments when Ghana counterattack.
