Croatia secured their first points of the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama at the Toronto Stadium. As Luka Modric celebrated a major international milestone, the result keeps Zlatko Dalic's side firmly in the hunt for a place in the knockout stages while ending Panama's tournament hopes with a game to spare.
Croatian supporters have declared their all-time greatest player a "national hero," a "football genius," and even a god, and they're not ready to say goodbye just yet.
Croatia legend Davor Suker claims that AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric is destined to return to Real Madrid after he leaves the Italian side. The former striker insists that the iconic playmaker will definitely reunite with the Spanish giants after the World Cup, adding another chapter to his legendary 597-game legacy in the capital.
In the lead-up to England's semi-final showdown with Croatia at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, repeated references were made to the fact that Zlatko Dalic's ageing side had been taken to extra-time in their two previous matches. The feeling was among certain sections of the English press that fatigue might be a massive factor in the game at the Luzhniki Stadium.
Luka Modric has sent a defiant message to his rivals ahead of Croatia's high-stakes World Cup opener against England, insisting that his side does not fear anyone. The AC Milan midfielder, who is appearing in his fifth global tournament, remains the heartbeat of a nation looking to replicate their deep runs in 2018 and 2022. While questions regarding his club future and potential retirement continue to swirl, the veteran midfielder is keeping his focus firmly on the pitch.
The 2026 World Cup is set to be a historic tournament, unlike any that have come before it. Expanded to 48 teams for the first time and spread across three countries - the United States, Canada and Mexico - it promises to be the biggest spectacle in the competition’s near-100-year history.
Luka Modric could be considered unique, given all that he has achieved, but Ivan Perisic has told GOAL that Croatia are capable of producing another Ballon d’Or winner in the future. The most decorated performer to emerge from that part of the world collected a prestigious Golden Ball in 2018. More “great talent” continues to drop off the production line, leaving hopes high when it comes to creating another member of the global elite.
Manchester City defender Ruben Dias is not convinced the 2026 World Cup will mark the end for veterans like 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, defending champion Lionel Messi, 38, and Luka Modric, 40. The Portuguese centre-back discussed the immense motivation his squad feels to capture the only major trophy their iconic captain has failed to win.
Ivan Perisic has told GOAL how the Croatia squad is able to ignore any club rivalries and build a “big family” at international tournaments. Another “very special” opportunity is about to present itself in 2026, as the World Cup takes centre stage, with one group of vastly experienced performers preparing to catch the eye again on and off the field.
The 2025-26 European season is almost in the books. Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain will face off in Saturday's Champions League final after both secured league titles in England and France, respectively, while there was joy for Bayern Munich in Germany and Inter in Italy as both won domestic doubles. Rounding out the 'Big Five' leagues, Barcelona successfully defended their crown in La Liga as Real Madrid tailed off in chaotic circumstances.
Luka Modric is reportedly ready to extend his AC Milan contract, but the 40-year-old's continuation at San Siro hinges on two crucial conditions being met. The midfielder has enjoyed a stellar campaign under Massimiliano Allegri, but his future depends on Champions League qualification and the manager staying before he heads to the World Cup with Croatia.
Luka Modric has addressed his future at AC Milan as his current contract approaches its final weeks. Despite turning 40, the Croatian icon remains a pivotal figure for Massimiliano Allegri and is determined to end his time at San Siro with silverware.
Luka Modric is facing a major decision about his future after suffering a facial injury while playing for AC Milan. The 40-year-old Croatian must now choose between extending his stay at San Siro or bringing his remarkable career to an end.
AC Milan and Croatia talisman Luka Modric has undergone successful surgery after suffering a fractured cheekbone just weeks before the World Cup. The legendary midfielder sustained the injury during a bruising Serie A encounter with Juventus, leaving his participation in the summer showpiece under the microscope.
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