SOCCER: Croatia beat Colombia 2-1 in World Cup warm-up

Croatia came from behind to beat Colombia 2-1 in a World Cup warm-up match, with Luka Vuskovic and Igor Matanovic scoring the decisive goals. Colombia had taken an early lead through Jhon Arias before Croatia’s quick response sealed the win.

REUTERS

March 27, 2026

Colombia's Luis Suarez battles for the ball with Croatia's Luka Vuskovic during the second half at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, on March 26, 2026.

Travis Register / Reuters

ORLANDO, Florida – Croatia came from behind to beat Colombia 2-1 in a World Cup warm-up match on Thursday, with goals from Luka Vuskovic and Igor Matanovic overturning an early deficit.

Colombia took the lead in the third minute when Jhon Arias’ deflected shot beat Croatian goalkeeper Ivica Ivusic, following a clever backheel from Luis Suarez.

Croatia responded just three minutes later. Vuskovic struck a brilliant equalizer from outside the box, his shot bouncing off the post and into the net.

The visitors completed the comeback in the 42nd minute after Colombian goalkeeper Camilo Vargas misjudged a high ball, allowing Matanovic to head into the bottom corner.

Looking ahead to the World Cup in North America from June 11 to July 19, Colombia is drawn in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and a playoff winner. Croatia will compete in Group L with England, Ghana, and Panama.

-Reporting by Angelica Medina in Mexico City; Editing by Peter Rutherford/Reuters