Montenegro will host Croatia in their final Group L match of the UEFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. The encounter takes place at the Podgorica City Stadium on Monday evening. While Montenegro aims to conclude their challenging campaign positively, Croatia seeks to cap off its dominant qualifying run.
Montenegro’s Struggling Campaign
Montenegro’s journey through the World Cup qualifying rounds has been inconsistent. Presently, they occupy the fourth position in Group L, having garnered nine points from three wins and four losses. Their goal difference is concerning, sitting at minus eight, with 14 goals conceded and only six scored.
At home, however, Montenegro has shown some promise, winning two of their three qualifying matches. Their recent away victory against Gibraltar, a 2-1 comeback, offered a much-needed morale boost. Despite this, their overall form remains shaky, with only two wins and three losses in their last five matches.
Croatia’s Dominance in the Group
In striking contrast, Croatia leads Group L with 19 points, having already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Their impressive record includes six victories and one draw from seven matches, marking them as the 30th nation to reach the tournament finals.
Under the guidance of coach Zlatko Dalic, Croatia has demonstrated exceptional quality. They achieved a notable 3-1 victory against the Faroe Islands, showcasing their tactical proficiency and attacking effectiveness. With a remarkable goal difference of plus 21, Croatia has scored 23 goals while conceding only two, affirming their strength in both offense and defense.
Team News and Lineups
Montenegro Lineup
Montenegro might see Marko Perovic start at left-back, following Risto Radunovic’s early substitution in their last match. Vasilije Adzic, who recently scored against Gibraltar, and Andrija Bulatovic are likely to remain in midfield. Their attacking line should feature Nikola Krstovic and Milutin Osmajic, while Nikola Sipcic and Marko Tuci strengthen the defense.
- Goalkeeper: Nikic
- Defenders: Marusic, Tuci, Sipcic, Perovic
- Midfielders: Jankovic, Adzic, Bulatovic, Vukotic
- Forwards: Osmajic, Krstovic
Croatia Lineup
For Croatia, coach Dalic may maintain an unchanged starting eleven from their win against the Faroe Islands. Luka Modric, despite his age, continues to be a pivotal player for the team. Mateo Kovacic remains unavailable due to ongoing recovery from injury.
- Goalkeeper: Livakovic
- Defenders: Gvardiol, Vuskovic, Stanisic
- Midfielders: Perisic, Marco Pasalic, Modric, Mario Pasalic, Sucic
- Forwards: Kramaric, Musa
Match Prediction
Expectations are high for Croatia, given their dominant performance throughout this qualifying cycle. Montenegro may leverage their home advantage initially, but Croatia’s superior quality and tactical execution suggest a probable victory for the visitors.
Final prediction: Montenegro 0, Croatia 3.
