Croatia produced one of the most memorable comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Montenegro 3–2 in Podgorica. With their World Cup spot already secured, Croatia rotated heavily, yet still delivered a performance full of resilience, experience, and late drama — the kind of match that football fans in Tanzania, especially those following European qualifiers, love to follow.
Montenegro Strikes Early as Croatia Stumbles
Despite Croatia’s strong qualification run, Montenegro shocked the visitors early.
- 2nd minute: Igor Matanović wasted a golden chance, heading over from close range.
- Moments later: Duje Ćaleta-Car’s defensive error gifted Milutin Osmajić a clean run on goal, which he calmly finished under Livaković.
Before Croatia could settle, Montenegro doubled their lead. Nikola Krstović — in superb scoring form — unleashed a precise low strike from 20 yards to make it 2–0 inside 14 minutes. For a team that had conceded only two goals all campaign, Croatia suddenly looked rattled.
Perišić Sparks the Comeback
Croatia’s revival began with a crucial moment of VAR intervention.
A forceful sliding challenge by Slobodan Rubežić on Kristijan Jakić awarded Croatia a penalty. Ivan Perišić, earning a landmark 150th cap, stepped up with veteran composure and buried the spot-kick straight down the middle.
Halftime arrived with Croatia trailing 2–1, but momentum was beginning to shift.
Second-Half Pressure Pays Off
Croatia dominated possession after the break, although Montenegro still posed a threat on the counter. Krstović nearly restored the two-goal cushion, striking the outside of the post with a curling effort.
The equaliser finally came:
- 73rd minute: Substitute Petar Musa struck the post
- Kristijan Jakić, alert and perfectly positioned, tucked in the rebound to make it 2–2
With tension high and Croatia chasing a winner, Zlatko Dalić turned to his trusted leader.
Modrić Influence and Vlašić Heroics
Luka Modrić entered for his 194th international appearance, injecting calm, rhythm, and experience into Croatia’s midfield.
And then came the moment of magic.
- 87th minute: Nikola Vlašić collected the ball 20 yards out
- With precision and power, he unleashed a brilliant strike into the net.
- Croatia 3–2 Montenegro — comeback complete
Vlašić, scoring his second goal in as many matches, sealed Croatia’s 17-match unbeaten run in World Cup qualifying and capped an unforgettable night.
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Conclusion: Croatia March On
Croatia’s remarkable comeback in Podgorica was a fitting end to their World Cup qualifying campaign. With veterans still delivering and young talents emerging, the team sets its sights firmly on next summer’s tournament.
For Montenegro, it was a painful end to a promising performance, but one that will serve as a learning curve as they continue their football development.
One thing is sure: matches like this remind us why football remains the world’s most unpredictable and beautiful sport — a sentiment shared by fans from Dar es Salaam to Zagreb.
