Croatia vs Montenegro Live Updates: World Cup Qualifier 2026 –The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues with an exciting clash between Croatia and Montenegro in UEFA Group L. Played at the iconic Stadion Maximin in Zagreb, this match carries high stakes as both teams look to strengthen their chances of qualifying. Croatia enter the game as favourites, but Montenegro are determined to cause an upset.
Pre-Match Context
- Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 – UEFA Qualifiers (Group L)
- Date & Time: 8 September 2025, 18:45 UTC (12:15 AM IST next day)
- Venue: Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb
- Group L Teams: Croatia, Czech Republic, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Montenegro
Croatia started the campaign strongly, winning their first three matches with dominant performances. On the other hand, Montenegro sit mid-table, aiming to bounce back after a disappointing loss against the Czech Republic.
Line-Ups & Team News
Croatia (4-2-3-1)
- GK: Dominik Livaković
- Defenders: Jakic, Sutalo, Ćaleta-Car, Stanišić
- Midfielders: Luka Modrić, Sucic, Pašalić
- Attackers: Kramarić, Perišić, Ivanović
Unavailable: Josko Gvardiol (injury)
Montenegro (3-4-2-1)
- GK: Petković
- Defenders: Vujačić, Savić, Sipčić
- Midfielders: Roganović, Bulatović, Brnović, Camaj
- Forwards: Vukotić, Jovetić, Krstović
Unavailable: Adam Marušić, Milutin Osmajić (injuries)
Live Score & Match Updates
Kick-Off: The match begins in Zagreb with Croatia dominating early possession.
15’ Minute: Luka Modrić controls the midfield, Montenegro defending deep.
28’ Minute: Goal! Croatia strike first through Andrej Kramarić, finishing a brilliant cross from Perišić. (Croatia 1–0 Montenegro)
39’ Minute: Montenegro’s Roganović sees yellow for a tactical foul.
Half-Time: Croatia 1–0 Montenegro. Hosts in control with more shots and possession.
56’ Minute: Goal! Ivan Perišić doubles the lead with a left-footed strike. (Croatia 2–0 Montenegro)
73’ Minute: Stevan Jovetić pulls one back for Montenegro with a curling shot from distance. (Croatia 2–1 Montenegro)
Full-Time: Croatia 2–1 Montenegro. A competitive match, but Croatia’s experience and home advantage secured the win.
Match Statistics (Key Highlights)
- Possession: Croatia 64% – 36% Montenegro
- Shots on Target: Croatia 7 – 3 Montenegro
- Corners: Croatia 8 – 2 Montenegro
- Fouls: Croatia 10 – 13 Montenegro
Croatia’s tactical dominance and sharp finishing proved decisive, though Montenegro fought bravely till the end.
Conclusion
Croatia vs Montenegro Live Updates: World Cup Qualifier 2026 – Croatia’s journey toward the 2026 World Cup continues with another strong victory in Group L. With their star players in form, they remain favorites to top the group. Montenegro showed resilience but need consistency to stay in contention for qualification.
FAQs
Q1. Who won the Croatia vs Montenegro match?
Croatia won 2–1, with goals from Kramarić and Perišić. Jovetić scored for Montenegro.
Q2. Where was the match played?
At Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb.
Q3. How can fans in India watch the match?
The game was streamed live on Sony LIV and broadcast on Sony Sports Ten 2.
Q4. What is Croatia’s current standing in Group L?
Croatia remain unbeaten and sit at the top of Group L.
Q5. Who were the key players in the match?
Luka Modrić (midfield control), Ivan Perišić (goal + assist), and Stevan Jovetić (Montenegro’s lone scorer).
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