ESPN Ranks World Cup Favorites, Places Croatia 14th Amidst Veteran Core and Emerging Talent

ESPN has re-evaluated its World Cup favorites just two days before the tournament begins, with Spain topping the list, followed by France and defending champions Argentina. Croatia, a perennial contender, has been placed 14th in the rankings.

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Dalić will have to hope that experience makes a difference in a tricky group, and young players like versatile defenders and midfielders Joško Gvardiol and Josip Stanišić can do the job for the older ones.

ESPN highlighted the enduring presence of Croatia's veteran players, including Luka Modrić, Ivan Perišić, Andrej Kramarić, and Mateo Kovačić, who have been instrumental in the team's success in reaching two consecutive World Cup semifinals. Coach Zlatko Dalić, a constant since 2017, will rely on their experience in a challenging group.

The publication also pointed to the emerging talent of younger players like Joško Gvardiol, Josip Stanišić, Luka Vušković, and Martin Baturina, who are expected to bring youth and unpredictability to the squad. ESPN's assessment noted that "Death, paying taxes, and a tricky group of Croatian veterans achieving a great result at the tournament" are inevitable.

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Death, paying taxes, and a tricky group of Croatian veterans achieving a great result at the tournament.

The 2026 World Cup will feature an expanded format with 48 teams. Croatia is in Group L with England, Panama, and Ghana. The expanded format allows the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed teams to advance.

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A large part of this team has been fighting side by side for over a decade.