Croatia Plays First World Cup Prep Match Against Belgium Tonight: Where to Watch

The Croatian national football team is set to play its first preparatory match for the upcoming World Cup, facing Belgium in Rijeka on June 2, 2026. This encounter marks a significant step in their final preparations for the tournament, which kicks off nine days later in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Following their March fixtures in the USA against Colombia and Brazil, this match against Belgium is the second of two planned friendlies. The "Vatreni" (Blazers) will also host Slovenia on June 7 in Varaždin. While victory is not the primary objective, the game holds importance for both teams to gauge their current form and readiness.

Belgium, despite their "golden generation" nearing the end of their careers, remains a formidable opponent. A win against such a team could significantly boost Croatia's confidence heading into the global competition. The match is scheduled to start at 6 PM and will be televised on Nova TV.

This friendly is part of a crucial preparation cycle for Croatia, aiming to fine-tune their squad and tactics. The team's performance against a strong Belgian side will offer valuable insights into their strengths and areas needing improvement before they embark on their World Cup campaign.