Ghana and Croatia face do-or-die battle as defeat means elimination

Croatia and Ghana meet on Saturday in a crucial Group L clash to secure their place in the last 32. With just one point separating the two sides, the match is vital for both. Ghana hold the advantage — a draw will be enough to secure their knockout berth, while Croatia must win.

Croatia bounced back from a 4-0 defeat to England in their opener by beating Panama 1-0 in their second match, with substitute Ante Budimir scoring the winner. A draw will not be enough, as they would remain behind Ghana in the standings. Captain Luka Modric, who celebrated his 200th international appearance with that win, now aims to lead his side to the knockout stage.

Ghana, after beating Panama and holding England to a goalless draw, are full of confidence. Despite having only 21.2 per cent possession against England, their resolute defence kept the Three Lions at bay. A draw will be enough for Ghana to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2010.

Croatia have no injury concerns, but coach Zlatko Dalic faces a decision on whether to start Ante Budimir. Ghana's goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi missed the previous match due to injury, but his replacement Benjamin Asare performed exceptionally well and is likely to keep his place.

Possible lineups
Croatia: Dominik Livakovic; Josip Stanisic, Marin Pongracic, Josip Sutalo, Josko Gvardiol; Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric; Martin Baturina, Mario Pasalic, Ivan Perisic; Ante Budimir.
Ghana: Benjamin Asare; Stephen Senaya, Aaron Adjetey, John Opoku, Gideon Mensah; Lawrence Yeremky, Thomas Partey, Abu Sibou; Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo.