Croatia’s 2018 World Cup final: from silver to controversy
Eight years ago today, Croatia claimed World Cup silver in Moscow. On 15 July 2018, Zlatko Dalić’s side lost the final to France 4–2 at Luzhniki Stadium, yet their semi-final victory over Belgium remains etched in Croatian sporting history. Last result: Portugal 2–1 Croatia (2026-07-02).
What happened in the final?
France lifted the trophy, but the match was marred by refereeing decisions. The opening goal came after Antoine Griezmann went down in the box and drew a foul on Marcelo Brozović. The free kick led to an own goal by Mario Mandžukić, though replays showed Brozović never touched Griezmann.
Croatia fought back fast. Ten minutes later Ivan Perišić equalised. France regained the lead when the referee awarded a penalty for Perišić’s handball - though debate raged over whether the contact was deliberate. Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappé then scored within the first 20 minutes of the second half, and Mandžukić pulled one back in the 69th minute.
Why this result still matters
That silver medal remains Croatia’s greatest football achievement. Dalić’s team won the hearts of millions, and the match dripped with raw emotion - from the downpour during the medal ceremony to then-president Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović embracing every starter. Recent form: two wins, no draws and three losses in the last five games (LLWWL).
The starting XI in the final was Danijel Subašić, Šime Vrsaljko, Dejan Lovren, Domagoj Vida, Ivan Strinić, Marcelo Brozović, Ivan Rakitić, Luka Modrić, Ante Rebić, Ivan Perišić and Mario Mandžukić. Andrej Kramarić and Marko Pjaca came off the bench.
What’s next for Croatia?
Croatia currently sit fourth in their 2026 World Cup qualifying group. Next fixture: away to Czechia on 26 September 2026. After back-to-back defeats, the side must rediscover form to secure a place at the tournament.
