Croatia and Czech squads named for World Cup runs

What's happened

Croatia has named a 26-man squad led by Luka Modric, with Zlatko Dalic confirming Perisic and other veterans; Modric is expected to be fit after a cheekbone injury. Czech Republic also names a 29-man? 26-man? squad, with notable youngsters and veteran players; they plan warmup fixtures before the World Cup opener against South Korea.

What's behind the headline?

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The two European teams have published rosters ahead of the World Cup, reflecting depth and experience. Croatia brings a mix of seasoned stars like Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic, while Croatia’s captain is expected to be fit after a facial injury. The Czech squad includes a mix of veterans and newcomers, aiming to use warmups in Prague and the United States to gauge readiness.
The timing of warmups signals strategic preparation: Croatia is preparing for a June 17 kickoff and Czech Republic for a June 12 start. Both teams have general expectations for group-stage fixtures that could define their tournament trajectory.
On the field, teams will rely on veterans to steady performances and on youngsters to inject energy in a tournament where every match can shift group standings.

How we got here

Croatia and the Czech Republic have announced their World Cup rosters ahead of the tournament co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Croatia opens against England? No, their campaign starts June 17 against England in Group L? That seems inconsistent with provided texts. The Czech Republic is preparing for a June 12 opener against South Korea. Both teams are using warmups against England and others to fine-tune squads.

Our analysis

AP News has reported Croatia’s 26-man roster including Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic, with Modric expected to be fit after a cheekbone injury. AP News also notes Croatia’s group phase opponents and the likelihood Modric could reach 200 caps. AP News also covers the Czech Republic’s 29-man? 26-man? squad with new faces like Huga Sochfek and Alexandr Sojka, and that warmups are planned in Prague and New Jersey ahead of World Cup action.

Go deeper

What will be Croatia’s starting midfield with Modric and Kovacic in form?
Which new Czech players are most likely to break into the XI?