The Vatreni have shown their true strength in knockout matches. At the 2018 World Cup in Russia and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Croatia decided matches with penalty shootouts and won all four times.

How did the Vatreni become the kings of penalties?

Croatia shares the spot with Germany as the most successful team in World Cup history in terms of penalty shootout performance. The Vatreni have decided four matches with penalty shootouts and won all four times.

What is the secret to the Vatreni's success?

Goalkeepers Subašić and Livaković have excelled in penalty shootouts. In three of the four matches, they pulled out teammates who missed. Only against Brazil did all of Croatia's players score.

What's next for the Vatreni?

Last result: England 4-2 Croatia (2026-06-17). | Date | Opponent | Result | | --- | --- | --- | | 2026-06-17 | England | 4-2 |

Now the Vatreni will play against the Czech Republic (2026-09-26). Croatia is third in the table.

Conclusion

The Vatreni are ready for the knockout phase of the World Cup. With their mental strength and ability in penalty shootouts, Croatia can go further in the competition.