Croatia secured their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a convincing 3-1 comeback win against the Faroe Islands, ending the visitors’ slim hopes of qualification. The victory ensures Croatia will go into their final qualifying match against Montenegro with qualification already guaranteed.

Faroe Islands Strike First

The match got off to a surprising start as Geza David Turi of Grimsby Town drove forward and had his shot deflected past goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, giving the Faroes an early lead. Despite being heavy underdogs, the Faroe Islands briefly threatened to pull off an upset in Rijeka.

Croatia Responds Quickly

Croatia responded within seven minutes when Josko Gvardiol drilled a precise shot into the bottom corner to level the score. Petar Musa then put the hosts ahead from close range, marking his first international goal since 2023. The win was sealed by Nikola Vlasic, who converted a well-placed cross from Ivan Perisic to make it 3-1.

Players and Coach Reactions

Josko Gvardiol, Manchester City defender, reflected on the achievement:
“Our goal was achieved with a game to spare in the qualifiers. We can proudly say we’ve qualified and we’re looking forward to it. We’ll travel to Montenegro for the final match in a relaxed manner, but with the intention of taking all three points, as every game is preparation for what awaits us in the summer.”

Faroe Islands coach Eydun Klakstein praised Croatia while reflecting on his own team’s effort:
“I wish them all the best at the World Cup. They’re a small country just like us, and we always support nations like that at major tournaments.”

Standings and Qualification Scenario

Croatia now sit six points above second-placed Czech Republic, with one game remaining. The Czechs have secured at least a play-off spot, while the Faroe Islands have finished their campaign, one point behind the Czechs. Even a Faroese win would have relied on the Czechs failing to defeat Gibraltar, making Croatia’s qualification all but certain.

With this result, Croatia joins the Netherlands, confirming another European side for next summer’s World Cup in North America, while demonstrating the depth and quality of their squad ahead of the tournament.