FIFA World Cup 2026
Croatia at the FIFA World Cup 2026
Overview
Croatia is a crescent‑shaped republic on the Adriatic, combining Central European and Mediterranean influences, with Zagreb inland as its capital, a long indented coastline and more than a thousand islands.
Croatia have never lifted the trophy, but their best run is as World Cup finalists (2018) across 6 World Cup appearances. At the World Cup, Davor Šuker and Ivan Perišić feature prominently in the scoring charts for Croatia with 6 goals each. All-time, Davor Šuker leads Croatia's senior men's scoring list with 45 goals.
At World Cup 2026, Croatia line up in Group L as UEFA representatives from Europe. Group-stage fixtures against England, Ghana and Panama open a competitive first-round schedule.
Quick facts
- Capital
- Zagreb
- Continent
- Europe
- Federation
- UEFA (Europe)
- Group
- L
- FIFA ranking (Nov 2025)
- #10
- World Cup titles
- 0
Geography
- Founded / established
- 1991
- Population
- 3,899,000
- Languages
- Croatian (official)
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Area
- 56,594 km²
- Highest point
- Dinara (1,831 m)
- Climate
- Mediterranean coast; continental winters inland
- Land borders
- Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Montenegro, Serbia, Slovenia
Football facts
- Appearances
- 6
- Best result
- Runner-up (2018)
- Top scorer
- Davor Šuker, Ivan Perišić (6)
- Debut
- 1998
2026 World Cup kits
Home kit
Main color: red
World Cup history
6 World Cup appearances
| Year | Result |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Qualified (2026) |
| 2022 | Third place |
| 2018 | Runner-up |
| 2014 | Group stage |
| 2006 | Group stage |
| 2002 | Group stage |
| 1998 | Third place |
Frequently asked questions
- Has Croatia ever won the FIFA World Cup?
- No. Croatia have not won the men's World Cup; their best finish is World Cup finalists (2018).
- Which group is Croatia in at World Cup 2026?
- Croatia are in Group L. Group opponents include England, Ghana, Panama.
- What is the capital of Croatia?
- The capital city is Zagreb.
- Which FIFA confederation does Croatia belong to?
- Croatia compete under UEFA (Europe).
- How many World Cups has Croatia played before 2026?
- Croatia had appeared in 6 FIFA World Cups prior to qualifying for 2026.
- Who is Croatia's all-time leading goal scorer?
- Davor Šuker leads Croatia's senior men's national team with 45 goals in FIFA-recognised matches.