Two of Europe’s most respected football nations meet in a blockbuster international friendly as Croatia host Belgium ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. With both sides expected to challenge for a deep run in North America, this clash offers an important opportunity to build momentum and fine-tune preparations before the tournament begins.

Croatia head into the World Cup with high expectations after reaching the podium in each of the last two editions of the tournament. Zlatko Dalić has built another competitive squad capable of challenging the world’s elite, and despite suffering a 3-1 defeat to Brazil in their last outing, confidence remains high.

Before that setback, Croatia had won eight of their previous nine matches, showcasing the consistency and resilience that have become trademarks of this golden generation. Home advantage could also play a significant role here, with Croatia unbeaten in ten previous matches at Stadion HNK Rijeka, recording eight wins and two draws.

The hosts will be determined to avoid back-to-back friendly defeats and send a positive message before travelling to the United States.

Belgium arrive in equally impressive form. The Red Devils are unbeaten in their last 11 matches and continue to possess one of the most talented squads in international football. Manager Rudi Garcia has blended experienced stars with emerging talents as Belgium look to erase the disappointment of their group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup.

While Belgium’s recent away friendly record contains several draws, they remain a dangerous attacking side capable of troubling any defense. Having scored four or more goals in six of their last nine matches, the visitors will be confident of finding the net against Croatia.

Head-to-Head Record

The rivalry between Croatia and Belgium has been remarkably balanced.

Previous Meetings

• Croatia Wins: 3
• Belgium Wins: 3
• Draws: 3

However, Belgium are unbeaten in the last four meetings between the nations:

• Belgium Wins: 2
• Draws: 2

Interestingly, the two previous friendly meetings both ended 1-0, with one victory for each side.

Key Players to Watch

Croatia – Ivan Perišić

The experienced winger remains one of Croatia’s most influential performers. Perišić has contributed ten goals and assists in his last 12 international appearances and continues to deliver in big matches.

Belgium – Dodi Lukébakio

Despite limited impact at club level, Lukébakio has been highly effective for Belgium in 2026, scoring three goals across two friendly appearances. His pace and directness could cause problems for Croatia’s defense.

Team News

Croatia captain Luka Modrić has been training with a protective face mask and may not start the match as Dalić carefully manages his fitness ahead of the World Cup.

Belgium have included Romelu Lukaku in the squad despite manager Rudi Garcia recently admitting the striker is not yet at peak physical condition.

Hot Stats

• Each of Croatia’s last four matches saw BTTS and Over 2.5 Goals.
• Croatia have scored in 16 of their last 18 friendlies.
• Belgium are unbeaten in 11 consecutive matches.
• Belgium have scored four or more goals in six of their last nine games.
• Belgium are unbeaten in the last four meetings with Croatia.

Betting Tips & Prediction

Best Bet: Both Teams to Score – Yes

Both teams possess elite attacking talent and have consistently found the net in recent matches. Croatia’s recent games have regularly delivered goals at both ends, while Belgium’s attack remains one of the most dangerous in Europe.

Alternative Bet: Over 2.5 Goals

The recent scoring trends of both nations suggest a high-scoring encounter could be on the cards.

Value Bet: Draw

With both teams in strong form and the head-to-head record remarkably balanced, a draw offers attractive value in what should be a closely contested battle.

Correct Score Prediction

Croatia 2-2 Belgium

This fixture has all the ingredients of an entertaining showdown between two quality sides. Croatia’s home advantage should help them compete, but Belgium’s attacking firepower may ensure the points are shared.

Final Prediction

Best Bet: Both Teams to Score – Yes

Alternative Bet: Over 2.5 Goals

Value Bet: Draw

Correct Score: Croatia 2-2 Belgium

Expect an entertaining contest between two World Cup contenders. Both teams possess enough attacking quality to score, while neither side will want to suffer a morale-damaging defeat this close to the tournament.