Luka Modrić turned back the clock in spectacular fashion as Croatia edged past Ghana 2-1 to seal their place in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and his teammates wasted no time singing his praises after the final whistle.
The 40-year-old captain set up the winning goal with a pinpoint corner that Nikola Vlašić headed home in the 83rd minute, capping a performance that left players and coaching staff alike in awe of his energy and influence on the pitch.
Vlašić, who scored the decisive goal from Modrić’s delivery, was effusive in his praise of the veteran midfielder’s contribution.
“I thought Luka was unbelievable today. I swear it’s like he turned time and it’s one of the best performances I’ve seen him do in a Croatia shirt,” Vlašić said.
The forward also credited Modrić’s delivery for setting up his winning header, while highlighting the team’s resilience in fighting back from Ghana’s second-half equaliser to seal the win.
Petar Sučić, who opened the scoring with a long-range strike in the 31st minute, was equally glowing in his assessment of Modrić’s display.
“I told him after the game, you playing like you’re 20. He was incredible today. He runs a lot. He going very well. He was so good with the ball. He’s our leader, our best player, and we are so happy that he can lead us in this World Cup,” Sučić said.
Beyond the assist, teammates pointed to Modrić’s relentless work off the ball — his tireless running, timely defensive interventions including late tackles and blocks, and his composure in dictating the tempo of the match. Several described him as the difference-maker who inspired the squad to fight their way through to the knockout stages.
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Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalić was equally full of admiration for his captain’s performance in what could be his final World Cup appearance.
“Luka was truly fantastic… That’s his character and his energy. He’s aware that this is the last World Cup and he’s trying to do his best. I hope that he will be healthy and that he stays with the Croatians for as long as possible,” Dalić said.
The performance underscored Modrić’s enduring influence as Croatia’s captain and leader, particularly in a winner-takes-all scenario where defeat would have ended their tournament. His assist for Vlašić’s goal also set a new record, making him the oldest player to provide an assist at a World Cup since records began in 1966 — yet another milestone in a career that continues to defy the usual boundaries of age in elite football.