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Gvardiol Benched: Croatia vs. Portugal Match Surprise
3 Jul
Summary
- Josko Gvardiol, a key defender, is not starting for Croatia against Portugal.
- Gvardiol's absence is due to match fitness, not injury, per the coach.
- Marin Pongracic and Josip Sutalo form the central defensive pairing.
Croatia faces Portugal in a significant Round of 32 match in the 2026 World Cup. A notable decision sees key defender Josko Gvardiol starting on the bench. This move comes as a surprise, given Gvardiol's status as one of Croatia's top defenders.
Head coach Zlatko Dalic confirmed that Gvardiol is not injured and is available for selection. However, the coach cited concerns about the defender's match fitness and current form as the reason for him not starting. Dalic emphasized that the team would not risk exposing Gvardiol if he is not at 100% readiness.
Marin Pongracic and Josip Sutalo have been chosen to form the central defensive partnership for Croatia in this critical game. Gvardiol had participated in all previous group stage matches, though he only entered the last game in the 88th minute.
