Croatia aims to build on their recent success in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers after winning against Gibraltar and the Czech Republic. They will face the Faroe Islands on Friday, but the main highlight is the absence of Luka Modric in the starting lineup.
With two group stage victories, Croatia is in a strong position heading into their third match. Coach Zlatko Dalic has opted to rest Modric for tactical reasons, though he is expected to play in the second half.
In the previous matches, Modric came off the bench during the 7–0 win against Gibraltar and started, scoring in the 5–1 victory over the Czech Republic. Against the Faroe Islands, midfield responsibilities will be handled by Inter Milan’s Petar Sucic and Atalanta’s Mario Pasalic.
Another key point is the debut of Toni Fruk, a 24-year-old midfielder from HNK Rijeka. He has been previously called up but will make his official debut in this qualifier.
Luka Modric will be on the bench for today’s game against Faroe Islands. (Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)
Croatia’s confirmed lineup
Croatia faces the match with three important players missing due to injuries: Josip Stanisic, Josko Gvardiol, and Mateo Kovacic. Head coach Dalic has had to make adjustments in defense as a result.
The confirmed starting XI against the Faroe Islands is: Dominik Livakovic; Kristijan Jakic, Marin Pongracic, Duje Caleta-Car, Borna Sosa; Mario Pasalic, Petar Sucic, Lovro Majer, Andrej Kramaric, Toni Fruk; Ante Budimir.