Croatia have officially booked their spot in the 2026 World Cup Qualification finals after a decisive 3-1 victory over the Faroe Islands, ending the visitors’ historic dream of reaching the global tournament. Across Europe, the night delivered drama, late goals, and crucial results that reshaped the 2026 World Cup Qualification picture for several nations, including Northern Ireland, Slovakia, the Netherlands, and Germany.
The 2026 World Cup Qualification campaign ended perfectly for Croatia as they sealed their ticket to the finals in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Despite entering the match knowing that even a draw would be enough to progress, Croatia were surprisingly shaken early on by the Faroe Islands, a team that has been improving rapidly throughout this 2026 World Cup Qualification cycle.
Key Match Facts: Croatia vs Faroe Islands
- Match: Croatia vs Faroe Islands
- Score: Croatia 3–1 Faroe Islands
- Goal Scorers: Gvardiol, Musa, Vlasic (Croatia); Turi (Faroe Islands)
- Venue: Rijeka, Croatia
- Qualification Result: Croatia qualify for 2026 World Cup
- Group: Group L
- Croatian Lead Over Czechs: 6 points
- Faroes’ Qualification Chance: Eliminated
The visitors stunned the home fans in Rijeka when Geza David Turi picked up the ball inside Croatia’s half, drove forward, and fired a long-range strike that deflected past goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic. The goal gave the Faroes a shock 1-0 lead and briefly raised hopes of keeping their unlikely qualification dream alive.
But Croatia recovered quickly. Just seven minutes later, Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol smashed home an angled equaliser after the Faroes failed to clear their lines. His goal reignited the Croatian attack and shifted momentum firmly in favour of the 2018 World Cup finalists.
Musa and Vlasic Complete the Comeback
With veteran midfielder Luka Modric orchestrating the rhythm in his 193rd international appearance, Croatia took control in the second half. Petar Musa made it 2-1 twelve minutes after the restart with a sharp finish at the near post, settling nerves and confirming the superiority Croatia had begun to impose.
The result was sealed 20 minutes from time when Nikola Vlasic took advantage of the Faroes’ defensive lapse, cushioning a well-placed volley into an empty net after goalkeeper Mathias Lamhauge misjudged the flight of the ball.
This 3-1 victory not only completed Croatia’s comeback but also mathematically secured their place in the 2026 World Cup Qualification finals. It also ended the Faroe Islands’ dream of becoming the smallest nation ever to reach a World Cup, a dream that remained alive until tonight’s defeat.
Northern Ireland Fall But Still Earn Playoff Spot
In Group A, Northern Ireland suffered late heartbreak after a stoppage-time goal from Tomas Bobcek handed Slovakia a 1-0 win. Despite the defeat, Michael O’Neill’s men secured a playoff berth thanks to their Nations League performance.
In an intense and scrappy 2026 World Cup Qualification match, Northern Ireland had earlier missed a golden chance when Daniel Ballard headed inches wide. Slovakia had two second-half goals ruled out before Bobcek struck from a corner to spark wild celebration among the home supporters.
Northern Ireland finished the match with 10 men after Ballard received a second yellow card, completing a frustrating night. But the good news remains: they are guaranteed a place in the March playoffs.
Netherlands Close In With Draw in Poland
The Netherlands moved closer to securing first place in Group G with a 1-1 draw against Poland. Memphis Depay extended his national scoring record to 55 goals, cancelling out Jakub Kaminski’s opener, which came after a clever assist from Robert Lewandowski.
With a three-point lead and a much stronger goal difference, the Dutch are virtually assured of topping their group in the 2026 World Cup Qualification standings.
Germany beat Luxembourg 2-0 thanks to a Nick Woltemade brace, but their qualification is not yet secured. They must still avoid defeat against Slovakia in their final group match to guarantee their place in the 2026 World Cup.
Slovakia, meanwhile, have kept their hopes alive and will face Germany with a chance to finish top of Group A if they can pull off a win.
Other Highlights Across Europe
- Montenegro overcame an early scare to beat Gibraltar 2-1 after Jessop put Gibraltar ahead.
- Slovakia’s late win over Northern Ireland means Monday’s clash with Germany will decide their group fate.
- The Faroes’ impressive qualification run ends, but they leave with pride after pushing Croatia hard.
Croatia’s consistent ability to perform in major tournaments continues to impress. Their successful 2026 World Cup Qualification campaign reinforces their status as one of Europe’s toughest national teams, especially with veterans like Modric still leading on the big stage.
The win also prevents Croatia from entering a dangerous playoff scenario, where several strong teams are likely to fight for limited spots.
FAQs
What does Croatia’s win mean for the 2026 World Cup Qualification standings?
Croatia have officially qualified for the 2026 World Cup after finishing top of Group L, six points clear of the Czech Republic.
Are the Faroe Islands eliminated from the 2026 World Cup Qualification?
Yes. Their defeat to Croatia mathematically ended their chances of reaching either the finals or playoffs.
Does Northern Ireland still have a chance to qualify?
Yes. Northern Ireland secured a playoff spot thanks to their Nations League performance despite losing to Slovakia.
Are Germany guaranteed qualification?
Not yet. Germany must draw or win against Slovakia in their final fixture to guarantee a place in the 2026 World Cup.