Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic expects Ghana to be dangerous on counter-attacks in their Group L decider against his side in Philadelphia on Saturday.
The Black Stars have beaten Panama and drawn with England to put themselves second behind the Three Lions and a point above Croatia before the closing round of group matches.
“We have been patient,” said Dalic, noting that Ante Budimir’s goal in the 2018 finalists’ 1-0 win over Panama came from a move started on a flank.
“That is how we will play. Ghana have played both games in a low block. We were not at the level we need and want to be at [against Panama], but we remain positive.
“We wanted three points and we got them, but it was unexpectedly difficult.”
Carlos Queiroz felt Ghana would have had a penalty and an extra player in their 0-0 draw against England but for inaction from the Video Assistant Referee team.
“Everything is open,” the former Real Madrid and Portugal boss said of the group before Croatia emulated his team’s result against Panama.
“Croatia and Panama have wonderful teams. To collect points at this World Cup, you have to pay a high price.
“Wins and points are terribly expensive. When you get three points or one point, you have to celebrate because it takes a lot of running, sacrifice, commitment, work, suffering and emotion during a game.”
World Cup 2026: Croatia v Ghana team news
Petar Musa was Croatia’s lone starting striker against Panama but was replaced by Budimir at half-time.
Having returned for his country this month following injury, Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol played throughout their 4-2 opening defeat to England but made way at the interval on matchday two.
“He broke his leg six months ago and it’s great how he’s come back,” said Dalic. “He’s not in the form he could be – we have to wait for him.
“He’s only been in full swing for a month and a half. He needs time. He’ll come back and be even better.
“We’ll see what we can change against Ghana. We’ll stay in the system we played in.”
Petar Sucic will be banned for a potential last-32 tie if the midfielder is booked.
Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi missed matchday two with a groin issue.
Prince Kwabena Adu, who was challenged by Ezri Konsa in the incident that led to Queiroz questioning the officiating, came on as a substitute but was replaced 28 minutes later.
Midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi and forward Inaki Williams must avoid cautions or incur suspensions.
