Croatia is a team that has always punched above its weight with this core, finishing second at the 2018 World Cup and third in 2022. The 40-year-old maestro, known as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, more likely than not played in his final World Cup. At 37, this could also be his final World Cup. Dominik Livaković, 31, has now been between the posts for Croatia in multiple international tournaments, and he was key again with several decisive saves throughout the World Cup. Kovačić provides dynamism in midfield and has been part of Croatia’s golden generation through its best World Cup runs.