Modrić's assist guides Croatia past Ghana into World Cup knockout stage

Croatia secured their place in the World Cup knockout stage with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ghana in their final group match. The win, powered by a precise assist from veteran Luka Modrić, saw Croatia finish with six points in Group C.

Ghana, despite conceding their first goals of the tournament, also managed to advance. Their four points were enough to secure a spot as one of the best third-placed teams, ensuring both nations move forward.

The match saw an early chance for Croatia's Nikola Vlašić, whose shot hit the post in the 17th minute. Croatia took the lead in the 31st minute with a long-range strike from Petar Sučić, who became the second-youngest goal scorer in national team history at 22 years and 245 days.

Ghana, under coach Carlos Queiroz, had built their campaign on a solid defense, keeping clean sheets in their previous matches. However, their resilience was broken in the second half. After a goal by Derrick Luckassen was disallowed for offside following a VAR review, Ghana equalized in the 73rd minute.

The decisive moment came in the 82nd minute. After a save by Ghana's goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, Luka Modrić delivered a corner kick that Nikola Vlašić headed in to reclaim the lead for Croatia, ultimately sealing the victory.

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He celebrated duels won, celebrated counterattacks, and even crossing the halfway line. They celebrated a 0-0.