Croatia faces Faroe Islands in Friday's World Cup qualifier

The Croatian national football team will take on the Faroe Islands in Rijeka on Friday at 8:45 p.m. 

Undefeated in Group L with 16 points, Croatia needs just one point across their final two qualification games - including a match against Montenegro three days later - to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Manager Zlatko Dalić stressed the importance of respecting every opponent. "It is our habit to respect every opponent, including the Faroe Islands. We have a tough match ahead and victory will not come easily. The Faroe Islands have had a historic qualifying campaign, earning 12 points and beating the Czech Republic and Montenegro. We didn't play well on their home turf, so it won't be easy. However, our goal is to qualify for the World Cup and achieve the best qualifying cycle in our history," Dalić said.

Player Ivan Perišić added: "If we take care of business tomorrow, things will definitely be easier, but our goal is to win both matches. If other results fall in our favour, it could simplify our path in the World Cup draw. It's our job to assert ourselves like we have in recent years. We are Croatia, and we always play to win."