The European Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup gave fans a memorable game on November 17, 2025. Montenegro hosted Croatia at Podgorica City Stadium. Montenegro led early. Croatia won 3–2 with goals at the end. The group match ended Group L.

Early Blitz from Montenegro

Montenegro attacked from the first whistle. The team pressed and ran fast. Three minutes into the game, Milutin Osmajić struck a left-footed shot that lifted the home score to 1–0. A quick move caught Croatia off guard.

At 17 minutes, Nikola Krstović scored a low shot after a swift break. Montenegro looked strong. The score showed Montenegro ahead by two.

Croatia’s Steady Comeback

Croatia did not give up. The team found its pace and pushed hard. At 36 minutes, a VAR check gave Croatia a penalty after Slobodan Rubežić fouled a Croatian striker. Ivan Perisic took the shot and scored. His goal spurred his team to fight back. Before halftime, Croatia made the score 2–1. Their play grew more controlled with each move.

Fiery Second Half and Smart Changes

The second half changed the game. Croatia, with World Cup qualification in hand, set a mix of seasoned players and fresh ones. The team pressed and changed players such as Andrej Kramarić and Josip Stanišić. This shift helped boost their attack.

Montenegro kept new players in place to shore up their defense. Their back line stopped several Croatian attacks. Still, Croatia pressed on.

At 72 minutes, after a brief review of a goal decision, Kristijan Jakić scored on a rebound. His shot tied the game at 2–2. ### Thrilling Finale and Last-Minute Winner

The final minutes grew tense. Both teams fought hard. Montenegro pushed for a win. Croatia pushed for one too.

At 87 minutes, Nikola Vlašić found space after an error by Montenegro. His strong shot went in, and Croatia led for the win. Croatia ended the match with a 3–2 score, even as Montenegro tried to level the game in stoppage time.

Match Summary

• Montenegro Goals: Milutin Osmajić (3’), Nikola Krstović (17’)
• Croatia Goals: Ivan Perisic (36’ penalty), Kristijan Jakić (72’), Nikola Vlašić (87’)
• Final Score: Montenegro 2 – 3 Croatia

Impact and Outlook

Montenegro did not advance but fought with heart. Their play at home against a strong Croatian team was brave. Croatia, already set for the World Cup, ended their campaign on a high note. They recovered from a two-goal deficit with clear play and firm resolve.

This game held high stakes and full suspense. Croatia now looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup in good shape. Montenegro will work on building a stronger team for future fights.

Fans in Podgorica saw clear skill and a deep drive for victory. The game left excitement as teams prepare for the global stage in 2026.

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