Croatia gears up for Portugal – Toronto legacy fuels clash

Croatia faces Portugal in a Toronto‑inspired story

Croatia steps into a duel with Portugal at the 2026 World Cup, and the tale goes back to 1976 when Ivica Grnja, Ivan Lukačević and legend Eusebio led Toronto Metros‑Croatia to their first North American league title. Today, on June 17, Croatia lost to England 4‑2, and the last five matches have yielded one win and four losses (LWLLL). The next fixture is against the Czech Republic, away on September 26.

How does the historic clash shape today's match?

In an interview with Jutarnji list, Grnja described how 20,000 people at Toronto airport surrounded the team with Croatian flags, creating an atmosphere that inspired the whole community. "Everyone invited us to lunches and dinners," Grnja recalls. That sense of belonging and pride carries over to today's players, who are preparing to meet Portugal – a side known for playing for the result.

What does Croatia expect on the field?

Grnja points out that the Portuguese are a "top‑class squad" and that both teams know each other well. "We have Modrić, they have Cristiano Ronaldo – both born in 1985," he says. Although Modrić is older, his ability to control the game and stay on the pitch for 90 minutes makes him a key player. On the other hand, Ronaldo looks for a moment of inspiration to decide the match. A tactical battle is expected, with details deciding the outcome.

What are the consequences for Croatia in the qualifiers?

In the last World Cup, Croatia reached the knockout stage, a major achievement for the nation. Grnja is proud of the result but warns that every match is a new story. "One thing is desire, another is possibilities," he notes. If Croatia can keep focus and use the experience from Toronto, it can hope to keep Portugal under pressure.

Current data and upcoming challenges

Grnja concludes that an invitation for a guest match in Toronto could further strengthen the link between history and the present. "Maybe the HNS could remember to call him as a guest," the 77‑year‑old jokes. For Croatia, that would be another step toward achieving the ambition – staying among the best on the world stage.

What can fans expect?

Supporters will watch how Modrić handles pressure and how coaches adjust tactics against the Portuguese defense. Any change in formation or player substitution could alter the match flow. As preparations continue, Croatia remains focused on the details – that is what defined their past success and will shape the future.