Portugal edge in as slight favourites against Croatia, but the margins are fine. Portugal's biggest threat runs through Gonçalo Guedes and Cristiano Ronaldo, while Croatia will pin their hopes on Ivan Perišić and Andrej Kramarić. It is the round of 32 — win or go home. The match is staged at BMO Field, Toronto. The predicted XIs reflect current form and squad news; official lineups are confirmed about an hour before kick-off. Make your own call — predict the result, exact score and goalscorers on FootballDream before kick-off.

Tactical matchup

Portugal line up in a 4-3-3, Croatia in a 4-3-3. Portugal should control the ball and probe for openings, while Croatia are likely to defend deeper and look to spring Ivan Perišić and Andrej Kramarić on the counter. Whether Bruno Fernandes and Rúben Neves can dictate tempo will shape how open the game becomes. In a knockout tie the first goal and set pieces carry outsized weight, with caution often trumping early ambition.

Key players to watch

Portugal: Gonçalo Guedes, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gonçalo Ramos — 4-3-3 formation.
Croatia: Ivan Perišić, Andrej Kramarić, Ante Budimir — 4-3-3 formation.

⚽ Predict Portugal vs Croatia

Call the result, exact score and goalscorers before kick-off. Create a private league and play with friends.

→ Portugal team guide → Croatia team guide

FAQ

What is the predicted lineup for Portugal vs Croatia?

Portugal are predicted to start in a 4-3-3, with Croatia in a 4-3-3. Both full predicted XIs are shown above and reflect current form and squad news.

Who will win Portugal vs Croatia?

It is a World Cup 2026 fixture that will likely hinge on official team news and in-game form. Make your own prediction — result, exact score and goalscorers — on FootballDream before kick-off.

When do Portugal and Croatia play?

Portugal vs Croatia kicks off Thursday, 2 July 2026 at 23:00 UTC at BMO Field, Toronto.

Who are the key players in Portugal vs Croatia?

Watch Gonçalo Guedes and Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal, and Ivan Perišić and Andrej Kramarić for Croatia. The full predicted XIs are listed above with every player from each squad.

What formation will Portugal play against Croatia?

Portugal are predicted to line up in a 4-3-3 and Croatia in a 4-3-3, based on their recent setups. Final shapes can change with confirmed team news an hour before kick-off.