Croatia’s Stellar Performance: 4-0 Victory Over Montenegro Strengthens World Cup Qualification Hopes

Dominant Display at Maksimir Stadium

Croatia showcased their footballing prowess with a commanding 4-0 victory over Montenegro in their FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers Group L match at Zagreb’s Maksimir Stadium. The impressive scoreline came through goals from Kristijan Jakic (35′), Andrej Kramaric (51′), an own goal by Edvin Kuc (85′), and Ivan Perisic (90+2′).

Match Highlights and Key Moments

The hosts dominated from the start, putting early pressure on Montenegro’s defence. The breakthrough came in the 35th minute when captain Luka Modric provided an assist for Kristian Jakic, who scored his first international goal with a precise left-footed strike into the bottom corner.

The match took a decisive turn when Montenegro’s Andrija Bulatovic was sent off in the 42nd minute, leaving his team with 10 men. Croatia capitalized on their numerical advantage throughout the remainder of the game.

Qualification Implications

The victory has significant implications for Group L standings, with Croatia maintaining their perfect record of four consecutive wins and claiming the top spot in the group. Montenegro currently sits fourth in the five-team standings with six points from five games.

The group, which includes Croatia, the Czech Republic, the Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, and Montenegro, offers automatic World Cup qualification for the group winner, while the runner-up will advance to the second round play-offs.

Looking Ahead

Croatia’s performance at Zagreb’s Maksimir Stadium not only demonstrated their superiority but also reinforced their status as strong contenders for World Cup qualification. The European Qualifiers campaign will continue through November 2025, with play-offs for the remaining finals places scheduled for March 2026.