Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic has officially announced his squad for the September fixtures in the European qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026. With matches scheduled against the Faroe Islands and Montenegro, the Vatreni are determined to extend their strong start and maintain momentum on the road to North America.
Familiar Core Returns
Croatia heads into September with confidence after a dominant run in June, where they recorded back-to-back wins against Gibraltar and the Czech Republic, scoring 12 goals and conceding just one. Recognizing the team’s form, Dalic has decided to keep the majority of that squad intact. This decision underlines his philosophy of consistency and trust in proven performers. We must reward players who deliver results. The team needs stability and rhythm, Dalic explained at the press conference in Zagreb.
Injury Setbacks and Youth Development
While the core squad remains, a few key names are missing. Midfielder Mateo Kovacic is unavailable as he continues his recovery from recent surgery. His absence will be felt in midfield, but Croatia has depth to compensate.
Rising teenage defender Luka Vuskovic has also not been included in the senior side for now. Instead, Dalic and U-21 coach Ivica Olic agreed that he should continue to gain regular playing time at the youth level before making the jump to full international football. This careful approach highlights Croatia’s long-term planning for talent development.
Croatia’s September Fixtures
Croatia faces two crucial matches in UEFA Group L this September:
- 5 September 2025 – Away to the Faroe Islands
- 8 September 2025 – Home against Montenegro in Zagreb
Group L also includes the Czech Republic and Gibraltar, making every point vital as qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 edges closer.
Dalic’s Message: Stay Focused
Despite recent convincing victories, Dalic warned against complacency. He stressed that every match in qualification carries weight and that overconfidence could be dangerous.
“We’ve had a good start, but qualifiers are a marathon, not a sprint. One bad performance can undo a lot of hard work,” the coach reminded both his players and fans.
Many of Croatia’s internationals have moved to new clubs across Europe this summer, which Dalic sees as an advantage. Competing in stronger leagues, he believes, will raise their confidence and readiness for national duty.
Croatia’s Bigger Ambition: FIFA World Cup 2026
For Croatia, these qualifiers are about more than just securing a ticket to North America. After their silver medal in Russia 2018 and bronze in Qatar 2022, the team has set high standards for itself.
Dalic’s ultimate goal is not just qualification, but building a team capable of another deep World Cup run. With experienced leaders such as Luka Modric still guiding the squad and younger players steadily rising, Croatia continues to balance present success with future ambitions.
Key Takeaways from the Squad Announcement
- Consistency in Selection – Dalic trusts the same players who delivered big wins in June.
- Managing Injuries – Kovacic’s absence is temporary, and his recovery is being carefully managed.
- Youth Patience – Vuskovic’s exclusion reflects a focus on long-term growth rather than rushing talent.
- Fixture Importance – The Faroe Islands and Montenegro may not be the toughest opponents, but dropped points could complicate the campaign.
- Focus on 2026 – Every match now is preparation for the world stage in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Why It Matters
Croatia’s squad announcement is not just a list of names. It’s a statement of intent. The strategy of maintaining stability, managing injuries responsibly, and prioritizing youth development shows that Dalic is thinking beyond September. His vision is aimed squarely at building a team that can compete with the world’s elite at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Conclusion
The release of Croatia’s September squad reflects Zlatko Dalic’s commitment to stability, discipline, and forward planning. While the absence of Mateo Kovacic is a setback, the strength of the remaining squad offers plenty of confidence. With matches against the Faroe Islands and Montenegro, Croatia will look to collect maximum points and move one step closer to securing their place on football’s grandest stage.
The journey to the FIFA World Cup 2026 is long, but Croatia’s preparations show a team that is united, ambitious, and ready for the challenges ahead.