Undimmed Quality, Modric Perisic Lead Croatia to 2026 World Cup

Croatia secured their ticket to the 2026 World Cup following a 3-1 victory over the Faroe Islands. This win wasn't just about goals from Josko Gvardiol, Petar Musa, or Nikola Vlasic, but the story of two veteran players, Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic.

At an age no longer considered young, Modric and Perisic steered their national team. Neither scored this time, but their contributions once again formed the foundation of a victory that sends Croatia to the World Cup for the seventh time since 1994.

Modric: The Midfield Time Machine

Croatia started the match applying high pressure, but surprisingly conceded early in the 15th minute through David Turi. A misplaced pass from Gvardiol led to a solo run and a deflected shot that deceived Livakovic.

Yet, as usual, when the game started to unravel, everyone looked for number 10. Modric reset the rhythm. He may not cover the pitch as extensively as he did in the 2018 era, but his vision, composure, and distribution remain Croatia's metronome.

His long-range effort in the first half didn't result in a goal, but he orchestrated the bulk of Croatia's attacks, guided transitions, and maintained the team's patience while the Faroes defended resolutely.

When he was substituted after an hour of play, with the score already favoring Croatia, the stadium rose in a standing ovation. Modric once again helped lay the foundation for victory.

Perisic: The Perpetual Energy that Changed the Second Half

If Modric is the maestro controlling the tempo, Ivan Perisic is the relentless piston pumping energy.

Despite being 36 years old, he plays like a 26-year-old. Perisic ran, pressed, dribbled past opponents, and created momentum. 

The peak came in the 70th minute when he produced a signature burst of explosive determination. After beating a Faroese defender, he delivered a perfectly weighted pass to the newly introduced Nikola Vlasic, whose flick secured the 3-1 scoreline.

That assist proved Perisic remains a player capable of breaking deadlocks, even when his physicality and age were topics of discussion before kick-off.

In an era where regeneration is demanded, Croatia still finds solutions through Perisic's boots.

Gvardiol Atones, Musa Scores His First

This victory did have other subplots. Gvardiol atoned for his error leading to the first goal by scoring the equalizer just eight minutes later. Petar Musa netted his first goal for Croatia with a clinical control and finish following a long pass from Josip Stanisic. Vlasic sealed the deal with a neat finish after receiving Perisic's elegant service.

This win ensures Croatia remains unassailable at the top of Group L. With 19 points and only one match remaining, the ticket to the 2026 World Cup is secure.

But the night in Rijeka wasn't just about the standings. It was a celebration of the resilience of two players defying time. Modric with his vision. Perisic with his energy.

Both serve as a bridge between Croatia's golden era and the emerging next generation.

If performances like this continue, the 2026 World Cup won't just be a final stage for these two veterans; it will be the last chance for football lovers to witness these icons write the closing chapter of their careers in golden ink.