Croatia vs Ghana: Five key battles to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2026

England, Croatia, or Ghana can win Group L in matchweek 3

One of the most interesting groups in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has turned out to be Group G. England, Croatia, and Ghana go into matchweek 3 with a chance to top the group with England being the favourites to do so. 

The Croatia vs Ghana game will be important for both nations as the winner will guarantee qualification to the round of 32. Here are five key player battles on the pitch that will decide this World Cup fixture:

Josep Stanisic vs Antoine Semenyo 

Josep Stanisic stepped up and provided the decisive assist in Croatia’s 1-0 win over Panama. The Bayern Munich right-back has created chances with his crosses and also has 11 duels won and 12 defensive contributions to his name in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

Manchester City’s Antoine Semenyo will be going up against Stanisic and the left winger has 17 Premier League goals to his name last season. Semenyo is yet to find the back of the net in this World Cup and has just taken two shots, nevertheless, he will be a difference maker in Ghana’s next game. 

Josko Gvardiol vs Inaki Williams

Inaki Williams will play on the right wing for the Ghanaian football team. The Athletic Club star started the game against England but failed to have a telling contribution before he was substituted in the 66th minute. 

Josko Gvardiol will be dealing with Inaki and the winger’s pace is something that the Croatian would need to be careful about. Gvardiol has had 8 recoveries in the last two World Cup games and will be eager to help his nation qualify to the knockout round. 

Luka Modric vs Thomas Partey 

Fresh off his 200th game for the Croatian national football team, Luka Modric now has the job to take his side to the knockout stage once again. With a 90.6% successful passing rate, Modric is still controlling the midfield, but he is yet to make a telling contribution in attack. 

Thomas Partey will be eager to keep Modric in check as he will be duelling with the AC Milan player throughout the game. Partey played a masterclass in midfield against England, helping restrict their players to just 3 shots on target. His nation will be hoping he pulls out something similar against Croatia.

Ante Budimir vs Jerome Opoku

Ante Budimir was unused against England and was brought on as a second half substitute against Panama, replacing Petr Musa. The 34-year-old made full use of the opportunity and found the back of the net to help his side win 1-0. This strike was not a one off for Budimir as he scored 17 LaLiga goals for Osasuna last season. 

Jerome Opoku has had a good 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, having helped his side keep two clean sheets. The 27-year-old has made 16 defensive contributions and has won 72.7% of the ground duels that he has participated in. 

Ivan Perisic vs Marvin Senaya 

Marvin Senaya has won 14 duels and contributed with 22 defensive contributions in the two World cup group games. The right-back also has 12 tackles and 3 interceptions to his name. While most wingbacks are assisting with the attack, Senaya has mostly stayed back to help his midfield and defenders. 

Ivan Perisic on the other hand has played as the left wingback and a left winger in his past two games. The Croatian has an assist to his name and has created 5 chances over the last two games. Expect Perisic to play a high line against Senaya in this game. 

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