Colorado Rapids II 1:0 Vancouver Whitecaps II 
Hill Country Lobos 4:0 Houston Sur 
Lonestar 2:1 Houston FC 
Lubbock Matadors 1:2 Texoma 
Des Moines Menace 0:0 Peoria 
Mississippi Brilla 4:1 Jackson Boom 
U. Catolica 4:2 San Luis 
West Texas 5:5 Denton Diablos 
Sport Boys 3:0 Academia Cantolao 
Midlakes United 2:2 Ballard 
Algeria 1:1 Austria 
Jordan 0:2 Argentina 
Ventura County 0:1 Real Monarchs 
Marconi S. U20 0:0 Blacktown City U20 
Croatia punched their ticket to the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup with a thrilling 2-1 win over Ghana in Philadelphia. The match, played on June 28, was a must-win for the Croatian side, and they delivered when it mattered most.
Ghana, who had already secured their spot in the next round, put up a tough fight. But a late header from Nikola Vlasic gave Croatia the victory and a place among the top 32 teams in the tournament.
First Half Action: Croatia Takes the Lead
The Croatian team came out strong, controlling possession early on. Their pressure paid off in the 25th minute when a well-worked corner kick found its way to the back of the net. The goal came from a striker who rose above the defenders to head the ball home.
Ghana, known for their quick counterattacks, struggled to find their rhythm in the first half. Croatia’s defense stayed organized, cutting off passing lanes and forcing turnovers. The score at halftime was 1-0 in favor of the European side.
Second Half Drama: Ghana Fights Back
Ghana came out with renewed energy after the break. They equalized in the 55th minute with a powerful shot from outside the box that curled past the Croatian goalkeeper. The goal reignited the match, with both teams pushing for a winner.
- Croatia’s midfielders controlled the tempo but couldn’t break through Ghana’s defense.
- Ghana nearly took the lead when a header hit the crossbar in the 70th minute.
- Both teams made key substitutions to try and change the game’s momentum.
As the clock ticked down, it looked like the match might end in a draw. But Croatia kept pressing, and their persistence paid off.
Late Winner Sends Croatia Through
In the 85th minute, Croatia earned a free kick near the sideline. The ball was whipped into the box, and Nikola Vlasic rose above everyone to head it into the back of the net. The stadium erupted as Croatian players celebrated their dramatic victory.
With this win, Croatia moves on to the round of 32, while Ghana finishes their group stage on a high note despite the loss. The match showed the heart and determination of both teams, but it was Vlasic’s late heroics that made the difference.