Croatia is in crisis after a 2-1 loss to Portugal in their last match, but the biggest shock at the 2026 World Cup is the elimination of Brazil, Germany and Italy. For the first time in history, the quarter-finals will proceed without the three greatest football nations, who together have won 13 World Cup titles. This confirms that the football world map is changing.
What caused this sensation?
Brazil was eliminated in the round of 16 after a 2-1 loss to Norway in a match full of surprises. Erling Haaland scored twice to take Norway to the quarter-finals, while Brazil was eliminated in the first knockout round for the first time since 1990. Germany was eliminated even earlier after a loss to Paraguay in the round of 16, and Italy failed to qualify for the tournament at all.
What does this mean for Croatia?
Croatia is in a difficult situation after their last loss to Portugal 2-1. The team has only two wins in their last five matches (2W-0D-3L), and they have lost their last two matches. The next match against Czechia on September 26, 2026 will be crucial for advancing in the group.
Who are the new powers in football?
The 2026 World Cup has shown that traditional powers no longer have a monopoly on success. Norway has reached the quarter-finals for the first time, Morocco is once again among the best, and Paraguay eliminated Germany. This is a sign that the football world map is changing and that new powers in football are beginning to dominate.
