Croatia Fall to Belgium as Dalić Experiments with New World Cup System

Croatia's preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a setback on Tuesday evening as they were beaten 2-0 by Belgium in an international friendly at the Rujevica Stadium in Rijeka.

Despite the defeat, the match provided valuable insight for head coach Zlatko Dalic, who used the occasion to test a new tactical formation that could feature prominently during the World Cup.

Dalić Unveils New Formation

Croatia lined up in a 3-4-2-1 system, signalling a possible tactical shift ahead of the tournament in North America.

The starting side featured:

• Dominik Livakovic in goal
• A back three of Josip Sutalo, Luka Vuskovic and Josko Gvardiol
• Wing-backs Josip Stanisic and Ivan Perisic
• Midfield pairing of Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic
• Advanced midfielders Petar Sucic and Martin Baturina
• Lone striker Petar Musa

Belgium also fielded a star-studded side led by Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans and Jeremy Doku.

Positive First Half but Lack of Finishing Costs Croatia

The hosts began brightly and created the first clear opportunity after 11 minutes when Modrić produced a clever pass to release Musa, but the striker failed to hit the target.

Croatia remained organised and competitive against one of Europe's strongest sides, but Belgium struck first in the 38th minute. A dangerous delivery from Doku caused confusion in the Croatian defence, and the loose ball fell kindly for Tielemans, who finished clinically past Livaković.

Just before the interval, Modrić tested Courtois with a powerful effort, but the Belgian goalkeeper produced an excellent save to preserve his side's lead.

Belgium Finish Strong

Dalić introduced several fresh faces after the break, including Ante Budimir, Luka Sucic, Mario Pasalic and Marin Pongracic.

The substitutions nearly paid immediate dividends when Budimir's close-range header crashed against the crossbar shortly after entering the match.

Further changes saw appearances for Andrej Kramaric, Kristijan Jakic, Nikola Vlasic and Nikola Moro.

As the game entered its closing stages, Belgium looked the more threatening side and sealed victory in stoppage time when Romelu Lukaku found the net to make it 2-0.

Lessons Before the World Cup

While the result was disappointing, Croatia will be encouraged by several aspects of their display, particularly the structure and balance shown in the new formation. However, finishing remains a concern, with several opportunities going begging against elite opposition.

The Vatreni now face Slovenia national football team in Varaždin on 7 June in their final warm-up fixture before departing for the World Cup.

Croatia's 2026 World Cup Group Fixtures

Croatia will compete in Group L and begin their campaign against England national football team in Dallas on 17 June.

They will then face Panama national football team in Toronto on 23 June before concluding the group stage against Ghana national football team in Philadelphia on 27 June.

Dalić will be hoping the tactical experiment against Belgium provides the foundation for a stronger and more clinical Croatia when the World Cup begins.