Addressing the growing scrutiny surrounding Ronaldo, Martinez stoutly defended his decision to leave the 41-year-old icon on the pitch for the full 90 minutes. “Cristiano is a player who is used to being in the right place at the right time. He is incredibly disciplined in his positioning and creates vital space for his teammates. His physical and mental condition is absolutely not in question,“ Martinez told the media in his post-match press conference.

While Martinez dismissed critics taking aim at Ronaldo’s quiet night against Colombia, the manager did hint at tactical adjustments ahead of their win-or-go-home date with Croatia. “We may need to make changes in the next match, but we base every decision on the information and data we have at our disposal,” Martinez remarked.

The draw also officially dashes any lingering fan hopes of a fairytale Ronaldo vs. Lionel Messi quarterfinal showdown, as the results locked the legendary rivals onto opposite sides of the bracket. Instead, Portugal must focus on a dangerous Croatia squad that has completely rediscovered its rhythm after a brutal 4-2 opening-match loss to England, giving Martinez plenty of tactical headaches to sort out over the next few days.

Cristiano’s quiet night against Colombia

Throughout the group stage, Ronaldo’s legendary scoring prowess was on display only during a 5-0 rout of Uzbekistan, a victory that ultimately cushioned Portugal’s path to the knockout rounds. However, when facing stiffer competition in DR Congo and Colombia, the captain failed to make a significant impact, turning in some of the quietest statistical performances of his World Cup career.

A closer look at his underlying numbers against Colombia highlights his struggles to influence the match:

• Minutes Played: 90
• Goals / Assists: 0 / 0
• Shots (On Target): 1 (1)
• Total Passes (Accurate): 24 (22)
• Fouls Committed / Was Fouled: 1 / 2
• Overall Match Rating: 4.5

This dip in form has predictably ignited a firestorm of media criticism. Pundits have been quick to compare Ronaldo’s quiet stretch to the explosive, tournament-defining performances of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland. Yet, as he has done his entire career, Cristiano now has the perfect opportunity to silence the noise when the lights shine brightest in the single-elimination rounds.

When do Portugal and Croatia play?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal will square off against Croatia in a blockbuster Round of 32 elimination match on Thursday, July 2, 2026. The high-stakes knockout clash is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 PM ET and will take place at Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) in Toronto, Canada.

Croatia took the lead in the 31st minute through Petar Sučić, who scored with a powerful strike from outside the box. Ghana responded in the second half, equalizing in the 73rd minute when Derrick Luckassen finished a scrappy play following a set piece, with the goal confirmed after a VAR review.

The decisive moment arrived in the 83rd minute, when Nikola Vlašić converted from close range after an assist from Luka Modrić, sealing all three points for Croatia, who moved to six points and secured direct qualification to the next round.

Are Ghana eliminated after losing to Croatia?

No, Ghana aren’t eliminated after losing to Croatia. The defeat would drop them to third place with four points, according to the Group L final standings, but they would still qualify for the Round of 32 as one of the best third‑placed teams under the tournament format.

What the result means for Croatia and Ghana

The win confirms Croatia’s qualification to the next round, as they reach six points and secure a direct spot in the knockout stage. For Ghana, however, they will now wait for the remaining group‑stage matches to finish to confirm their position as one of the best third‑placed teams and determine their next opponent in the Round of 32.

All signs indicate that the next opponent for England—who locked up the top spot in the group—at the start of the knockout stages will be Senegal, a matchup scheduled for July 1. On Croatia’s side, after advancing in second place, their next opponent would momentarily be Portugal, scheduled for July 3. However, the final matchups are still pending the results of the Group K fixtures.

England secured seven points after defeating Panama 2-0, featuring appearances on the scoresheet from their marquee stars, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. In the other fixture, where second place in the group was being heavily contested, Ghana found an 80th-minute equalizer to tie the match. However, a late-game response from Croatia was enough to secure a 2-1 victory, allowing them to advance as the second-place side with six points.

Group L standings

Ghana managed to advance to the Round of 32, as the team closed the group stage with four points and locked in its permanence in the best third-place standings. The tournament dream is not over for them, standing out as an African national team that hopes to pull off a massive surprise in a World Cup where those from their confederation are truly shining. Panama are out of the World Cup with 0 points.

For the moment, indications suggest that their upcoming matchup would be against Colombia, scheduled for July 4. However, that specific encounter remains pending Colombia’s final group stage match against Portugal, where first place in that sector will be decided. The ultimate leader of that group will face Ghana.

England arrive with an on-fire Kane

Harry Kane has become England‘s all-time leading scorer at the World Cup after scoring in the Three Lions’ final group stage game vs Panama. Kane nodded home from a Jude Bellingham cross to make it 2-0 — taking him to 11 World Cup goals, one beyond Gary Lineker’s previous national record of 10.

It also took him to 18 goals in major international tournaments for England. The England captain had drawn level with Lineker after scoring twice in the 4-2 win over Croatia to open the campaign. This incredible form makes the star striker a more than complicated rival for absolutely anyone to face.

Canadian referee Drew Thomas Fischer will take charge of a match with major implications for both teams’ ambitions. For Croatia, a draw or defeat would leave them in third place in the group standings.

Zlatko Dalic, the long-time head coach of this national team, has selected the following starting XI for this decisive match: Dominik Livakovic; Josip Stanisic, Marin Pongracic, Josip Sutalo; Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric (C), Nikola Vlasic, Martin Baturina, Petar Sucic; Ante Budimir, Ivan Perisic.

Group L standing ahead of Matchday 3

Croatia’s future in this tournament will naturally depend on whether they win, draw, or lose this afternoon against Ghana. If they fail to take all three points, they could still capture leadership of Group L if England does not manage to beat Panama.

Confirmed Ghana lineup

Carlos Queiroz’s situation may not be as precarious as Croatia’s, as a draw would be enough to secure second place. With Inaki Williams not starting this match, these are the 11 players who will take the field in Philadelphia.

Benjamin Asare; Jonas Adjetey, Gideon Mensah, Derrick Luckassen, Marvin Senaya; Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Antoine Semenyo, Elisha Owusu; Jordan Ayew, Kamaldeen Sulemana.

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz (from Portugal) had already left Williams out of the starting lineup for the Black Stars’ debut at the 2026 World Cup. Thus, the fact that he’s done it again isn’t all that surprising. Whether it’s the right call is a different question. However, Williams wasn’t much of a factor against England in the only World Cup match he has started so far, and the head coach is going back to what worked for him before.

The decision to leave Williams on the bench is entirely tactical. Williams is fit to play and will be ready to come on if his team needs him against Croatia, who will also be without Josko Gvardiol in the starting lineup.

Who will be replacing Williams?

As Ghana gear up for a decisive matchup with Croatia, they are well aware of what will happen if they win, tie, or lose. They know what the odds are, and yet Queiroz is opting to leave the Athletic Bilbao striker out of the starting lineup.

In his place, Kamaldeen Sulemana will play alongside captain Jordan Ayew in attack. Other notable names in the starting XI include Antoine Semenyo and Thomas Partey.

Ghana’s lone goal in 2026 World Cup

The Black Stars have scored just one goal through their first two games of the 2026 World Cup. Curiously enough, the goalscorer wasn’t one of their top strikers but midfielder Caleb Yirenki instead.

A 0-0 draw would be enough for Ghana to advance to the Round of 32 from Group L, meaning they could reach the knockout stage after scoring just one goal in the group stage. So far, Semenyo, Ayew, and Williams have all been held scoreless.

The refereeing crew appointed for this Group L match is led by Canadian official Drew Thomas Fischer. Ghana enter the match after a strong start to the tournament, opening with a 1-0 win over Panama before earning a 0-0 draw against England to remain in a strong position in the group standings. Surprisingly, Inaki Williams isn’t starting today for Ghana.

Croatia, meanwhile, began their World Cup campaign with a 4-2 loss to England in Dallas but responded with a 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto, keeping their hopes of advancing alive heading into the final group-stage fixture. A big name is on the bench as Josko Gvardiol isn’t starting today against Ghana.

Full match officiating team for Croatia vs Ghana

The officiating crew for this 2026 World Cup Group L match is headed by Canadian referee Drew Thomas Fischer, who has been assigned to oversee proceedings at Philadelphia Stadium.

Full Match Officials:

• Center Referee: Drew Thomas Fischer (Canada)
• Assistant Referee 1: Michael Andrew Barwegen (Canada)
• Assistant Referee 2: Lyes Arfa (Canada)
• Fourth Official: Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh (New Zealand)
• Video Assistant Referee (VAR): Guillermo Pacheco Larios (Mexico)
• Assistant VAR: Rodolpho Toski Marques (Brazil)

In this Croatia vs Ghana showdown, any result —win, draw, or loss— carries major implications. The officiating crew will manage a high‑stakes match with both teams still alive in the race for qualification.What to expect from the refereeing style in this World Cup match

Recognized for his composed, calculated approach, Drew Thomas Fischer typically manages matches through communication and verbal warnings rather than early cards. As the reigning MLS Referee of the Year, he brings a distinctly North American officiating profile into this high‑stakes Group L clash between Croatia and Ghana.

With both teams still fighting for crucial points, discipline and game control will be central throughout the match. Fischer’s consistency in foul recognition and card thresholds could shape how both sides adjust their tactical approach, especially in a fixture where every decision carries significant qualification implications.

How to watch Croatia vs Ghana in the USA

Soccer fans across the United States will be able to watch this highly anticipated clash live on FS1 and Telemundo through traditional TV coverage.

Those preferring to stream can follow the action on Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, Hulu + Live TV, and Peacock Premium.

Can I watch Croatia vs Ghana for free?

U.S. fans can stream this highly anticipated matchup live on Fubo or DirecTV Stream. Eligible new subscribers may qualify for a five-day free trial.

Both platforms offer nationwide live coverage, allowing viewers to follow every key moment and decisive play as it happens.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Everything will be on the line when Ghana and Croatia meet in the decisive Group L finale. With three teams still fighting for the top three spots, every result could reshape the standings.

Ghana enters with four points after a scoreless draw against England and can still finish first depending on both its result and the outcome of England vs. Panama.

Croatia sits one point back and knows a win would secure at least second place while keeping first within reach if England fails to win. Expect a fiercely contested battle with plenty on the line.

Croatia vs Ghana: Predicted Lineups

Croatia (4-2-3-1): Dominik Livakovic; Josip Stanisic, Marin Pongracic, Josko Sutalo, Josko Gvardiol; Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric; Martin Baturina, Mario Pasalic, Ivan Perisic; Ante Budimir.

Ghana (4-3-3): Lawrence Asare; Ebenezer Annan Senaya, Jerome Opoku Adjetey, Jonathan Mensah Opoku, Gideon Mensah; Lawrence Agyekum Yirenkyi, Thomas Partey, Ibrahim Sadiq Sibo; Ernest Nuamah Williams, Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo.

What time is the Croatia vs Ghana match?

The match kicks off today, June 27, at 5:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 5:00 PM
Central Time: 4:00 PM
Mountain Time: 3:00 PM
Pacific Time: 2:00 PM

The venue for the encounter has an official capacity of 65,827 spectators, making it one of the larger stadiums used during the tournament in the United States.

The official attendance for the match between Croatia and Ghana will be confirmed by FIFA during the second half, although a near-capacity crowd is expected given the importance of the Group L clash. Inaki Williams isn’t starting for Ghana, whereas there’s another big absence in Croatia as Josko Gvardiol isn’t starting either.

Weather conditions in Philadelphia for Croatia vs Ghana

Matchday conditions in Philadelphia are expected to be challenging, with high humidity and mostly cloudy skies at kickoff time.Temperatures are projected to range between 25°C and 26°C (77°F to 79°F) at the start of the match.

Humidity levels are expected to be very high, near 90%, creating physically demanding conditions that could impact player stamina throughout the game. The probability of rain drops significantly to around 14% at kickoff (5:00 PM EDT), making a rain-free match the most likely scenario.

In this Croatia vs Ghana matchup, which carries major implications depending on what happens today, wind conditions are expected to remain light and variable at around 13 km/h (8 mph), with no meaningful impact on gameplay.

Attendance outlook for Croatia vs Ghana

Although official figures will be released during the second half, expectations point toward a strong turnout, with the stadium likely nearing full capacity for a Croatia vs Ghana matchup whose FIFA ranking gap was highlighted by Croatia’s higher position before kickoff.

Ghana currently sit 65th in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,398.57 points. The African side began its tournament with a 1-0 win over Panama before earning a valuable 0-0 draw against England.

With that momentum, the squad coached by Carlos Queiroz approaches the match knowing that a draw against Croatia could be enough for Ghana to secure qualification for the Round of 32. In a surprising decision, Inaki Williams isn’t starting against Croatia today.

How do Ghana and Croatia compare in the latest FIFA rankings?

Ghana currently sit 65th in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,398.57 points, while Croatia are significantly higher at No. 13 with 1,711.48 points. Despite the gap in rankings, Ghana’s strong performances in the group stage have kept them ahead in the standings, setting up a high-stakes final match against a Croatia side fighting to stay alive in the competition.

What is at stake for Ghana against Croatia?

Ghana’s results against Panama and England have given them control of their qualification path heading into the final group-stage match. A draw would be enough to secure progression, while a victory could potentially open the door to a top finish in Group L.

With everything still to play for, Ghana enter the match knowing that their strong start to the tournament will only matter if they can maintain consistency in this decisive clash against Croatia.

Croatia are currently ranked No. 13 in the latest FIFA World Ranking with 1,711.48 points. The European side opened its World Cup campaign with a 4-2 loss to England in Dallas despite showing resilience.

The Croatians responded in their second outing with a 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto. The match also marked Luka Modric’s 200th appearance for the national team, making the victory even more memorable.

How do Croatia and Ghana compare in the latest FIFA rankings?

Croatia head into the match as the significantly higher-ranked nation according to FIFA’s latest rankings, while Ghana are ranked 65th with 1,398.57 points. Although Croatia hold a considerable advantage in the FIFA rankings, the standings in Group L tell a different story.

Croatia enter the final group match with three points from two games and must defeat Ghana to maximize their chances of advancing to the knockout stage, while also keeping an eye on the result between England and Panama.

What is at stake for Croatia against Ghana?

Croatia’s victory over Panama kept their World Cup campaign alive after the opening defeat to England, but there is little room for error heading into the final group-stage match.

With experienced players such as Luka Modric leading the squad, Croatia will look to capitalize on their momentum in one of the most important matches of their tournament.

Croatia and Ghana will take the field knowing the simultaneous Group L match between England and Panama could also reshape the standings. Under FIFA’s expanded 48-team format, the top two teams from each group qualify automatically, while the eight best third-placed teams also advance to the knockout stage.

After defeating Panama and falling to England in their first two matches, Croatia still control much of their own destiny. However, a draw or defeat would leave the 2018 World Cup finalists relying on other results and, potentially, the ranking of the tournament’s best third-place teams. Canadian referee Drew Thomas Fischer will officiate Croatia vs. Ghana today.

What happens if Croatia win vs Ghana?

A victory would move Croatia to six points and guarantee qualification for the Round of 32 with a top-two finish in Group L. For Ghana, the defeat would mean dropping to third place with four points, yet still qualifying for the Round of 32 as one of the best third‑placed teams.

What happens if Croatia tie vs Ghana?

A draw would leave Croatia on four points and likely in third place, a total that would be enough to advance as one of the best third‑placed teams under the expanded World Cup format.

For Ghana, the draw would secure second place in Group L with five points and send them directly to the Round of 32 without relying on any other group’s results

What happens if Croatia lose vs Ghana?

If Croatia lose to Ghana, their situation becomes critical. They would finish the group stage with only three points and sit on the brink of elimination, needing help from other results to have any chance of advancing as a best third‑placed team.

For Ghana, a win would take them to seven points and put them in contention for first place in Group L. They would top the group if England draw or lose to Panama, while an England win would push the battle for first to goal difference.

2026 World Cup Group L standings