Croatia head coach, Zlatko Dalic
Croatia head coach, Zlatko Dalic has played down concerns about Ghana following the World Cup draw in Washington, insisting his team will focus primarily on their own performance ahead of the Group L clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“We don’t care too much about Ghana,” Dalic said when asked about the Black Stars.
“I know my friend Asamoah Gyan, we played together when I was in LA. I know there will be tough games. Ghana’s team is very strong and fast, and it is not going to be easy for us.”
Croatia are aiming for another strong showing on the world stage after finishing second in 2018 and third in 2022. They will open the tournament against England, before facing Panama and Ghana in what could be a decisive group finale.
Despite his confidence in Croatia’s pedigree, Dalic made it clear his team will show Ghana full respect.
“Our goal is to go past the group stage. We’ll take it step by step. It won’t be easy. Full respect to Ghana, they will not be easy opponents,” he added.
Ghana will be making their fifth World Cup appearance next summer and return to the competition with a youthful squad led by Kudus Mohammed, Jordan Ayew and Thomas Partey.
The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 before the crucial fixtures against England and Croatia.
