Overview
- Croatia top Group L and need only a draw in Rijeka to clinch direct qualification to the expanded 2026 World Cup.
- The Faroe Islands enter with four wins in their past five qualifiers, including a 2-1 victory over Czechia in October.
- To reach the play-offs, the Faroes must beat Croatia and also need Gibraltar to avoid defeat against Czechia in Monday’s match.
- Croatia won the reverse fixture 1-0 in Torshavn in September, underscoring their status as clear favorites.
- Ivan Perisic emphasized a clean-sheet focus, while coach Eydun Klakstein said his largely part-time squad has a small but real chance.