Luka Modrić’s pursuit of a FIFA World Cup title ended in a 1-2 defeat to Portugal during the tournament’s knockout phase, marking a definitive close to the Croatian captain’s international career. The 39-year-old midfielder, a 2018 Golden Ball winner, was unable to overcome a late-game VAR intervention that disallowed an equalizer, leaving the veteran icon without the sport’s ultimate trophy.
Why Did the VAR Decision Spark Controversy?
The match turned on a 103rd-minute disallowed goal by Joško Gvardiol, which was overturned by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system due to an offside call triggered by a marginal touch. According to Luka Modrić, the implementation of technology in modern football has become inconsistent and biased toward larger footballing nations.
Modrić stated, “I said from the beginning that I don’t like VAR. Sometimes it is good, but it is used selectively. It depends on the size of the teams.” He further argued that the penalty awarded to Portugal, which helped secure their victory, was unjustified and suggested that if the roles were reversed, the refereeing team would not have intervened. Croatian media outlet Jutarnji List echoed this frustration, noting that the team felt “betrayed” by the officiating, further fueling the perception that the match outcomes were influenced by factors beyond the players’ control.
Luka Modrić, who will turn 41 in September 2026, has been the central figure of Croatia’s most successful footballing era, including a runner-up finish in 2018 and a bronze medal in 2022.
How Does This Loss Affect Croatia’s Legacy?
The exit in the first round of the playoffs is viewed by local analysts as a significant underperformance for a squad that has consistently punched above its weight. Croatia struggled defensively throughout the tournament, conceding seven goals in four matches, including a heavy 4-0 loss to England and tight, difficult encounters against Panama and Ghana.
Jutarnji List described the team’s defensive work as “hellish,” pointing out that despite the presence of elite talent like Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol, the squad failed to organize effectively in critical moments. This defensive fragility stands in stark contrast to the 2018 campaign, where, despite conceding eight goals during the knockout stages, the team managed to reach the final against France.
What Is Next for the Retiring Icons?
The 2026 tournament serves as a final chapter for several of the game’s greatest players. Beyond Modrić, other legends like Lionel Messi and Edin Džeko are unlikely to feature in future World Cup cycles. While Ivan Perišić has expressed a desire to continue competing as long as his physical condition allows, the general trend indicates a massive generational shift in international football.
Modrić remained tight-lipped regarding his immediate future with the national team, telling Croatian reporters, “Now is not the time to talk. You will find out soon.” His visible emotional distress on the pitch, shared by teammates Mateo Kovačič and Ivan Perišić, underscored the weight of the moment for a generation that defined Croatian football history.
Pro Tips for Understanding VAR Trends
- Consistency Metrics: Watch for FIFA’s post-tournament reports on VAR usage, which often track the frequency of interventions.
- Player Sentiment: High-profile reactions to technology often indicate a growing divide between traditional officiating styles and data-driven refereeing.
- Generational Turnover: Keep track of international retirement announcements following major tournaments, as these signals often dictate the betting odds and power dynamics for the next UEFA Nations League cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Luka Modrić play in the 2026 World Cup?
No, this tournament was confirmed as his final opportunity to win the trophy. He will be 41 years old by the next cycle, and he has already indicated that his time with the national team is nearing an end.
Why was the goal by Joško Gvardiol disallowed?
The VAR intervened to detect a “micro-touch” that placed Gvardiol in an offside position during the buildup to the goal in the 103rd minute.
How did the players react to the officiating?
Modrić expressed significant frustration, claiming that VAR is used selectively and that the team felt “zrazený” (betrayed) by the decisions made during the match against Portugal.
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