Croatia's World Cup Plans Face Fitness Hurdles

What's happened

Croatia's World Cup campaign faces selection and fitness challenges as Kovacic, Gvardiol and Modrić approach the tournament with limited match sharpness. Dalic contemplates lineup options ahead of opening clash with England, while the team balances experience with upcoming tests.

What's behind the headline?

The Analysis

Croatia enters the World Cup with an ageing spine and a need to balance reliability with fresh legs.
Dalic has signaled a preference to revert to a back four, which could consolidate play but risks exposing less-experienced players.
The fitness concerns around Kovacic, Gvardiol, and Modrić could dictate the tempo of Croatia’s campaign and influence early results.
The opening match against England is pivotal for momentum; a strong start would set the tone for group play.
The team’s success hinges on how quickly younger players adapt to high-level competition and whether Modrić’s influence can translate into consistent performances.

How we got here

Croatia has qualified for the World Cup with a squad led by Luka Modrić, who remains a central figure. Dalic plans to rotate and test formations, with injuries and fitness affecting key players like Kovacic and Gvardiol. The team aims to leverage experience while integrating younger talents.

Our analysis

The Guardian: Nick Ames reports on Dalic’s concerns about match sharpness and selection issues ahead of England opener. The Guardian: Aleksandar Holiga analyzes Croatia’s evolving formation strategy and the reliance on veteran leadership. AP News provides context on the broader World Cup qualifying landscape and the expectations for European teams entering the tournament."

Go deeper

Will Croatia rotate heavily in the group stage or stick with a familiar core?
Can younger players step up to support Modrić and Kovacic in North America?
How will England exploit any Croatia fatigue in the opener?