The Croatian national football team opened the qualification for the 2026 World Cup with a convincing victory against Gibraltar with a score of 7:0. The match was played on June 6, 2025, in Faro, Portugal, and this victory equaled Croatia’s most prominent official away victory.
Key moments of the game
Mario Pašalić headed in the 28th minute after a cross from Ivan Perišić. Just two minutes later, in the 30th minute, Ante Budimir made it 2:0 after a Perišić corner. Franjo Ivanović scored two goals (60th and 63rd minutes), followed by Ivan Perišić (73rd) and Andrej Kramarić (77th and 79th minutes). Croatia had 30 shots on goal and 12 great chances, while Gibraltar seriously threatened only once in the first half.
| MINUTE | ARCHER | GOAL DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| 28′ | Mario Pašalić | Head after Perišić’s cross |
| 30′ | Ante Budimir | Deflecting the ball after a corner |
| 60′ | Franjo Ivanović | The debutant in the national team jersey |
| 63′ | Franjo Ivanović | The second goal of the match |
| 73′ | Ivan Perišić | Precise shot |
| 77′ | Andrej Kramarić | First goal |
| 79′ | Andrej Kramarić | Second goal |
Statistics and significance of victory
Croatia’s most significant away victory in official matches, tied with the win against Andorra (7:0, 2006). This high victory is essential for the overall goal difference, which can be decisive in the battle for qualification to the World Cup. On Tuesday, Croatia has a crucial match against the Czech Republic at the Opus Arena in Osijek, which is essential to the group’s progress so far.
Reactions and impressions
Croatia, despite a somewhat slower start, demonstrated seriousness and quality, justifying their status as favorites against the 196th-ranked national team in the world. Coach Zlatko Dalić was satisfied with the approach and efficiency, and the fans enjoyed the goliath and convincing game.
Croatia opened the World Cup qualification in the best possible way, demonstrating the strength and breadth of its staff. The high victory against Gibraltar is an excellent announcement for the continuation of the qualification and the fight for placement at the world’s biggest football exhibition.
