At 40 years old, Modrić scored 1 goal and provided 2 assists as Croatia leads with 5 wins, 1 draw, 3 points, and a +15 goal difference, securing their spot in the World Cup.

An authentic football veteran who remains a mainstay in a major European league club at 40, serving as the national team’s pivotal figure, he is the everlasting icon, the timeless Modrić.

In the 8th round of the UEFA World Cup qualifiers Group L, Croatia comfortably defeated Gibraltar 3-0, maintaining an unbeaten record with 5 wins and 1 draw in 6 matches, leading the group by 3 points and a +15 goal difference, effectively securing the top spot and direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Croatia tops the group with 16 points from 6 games, while the Czech Republic is second with 13 points from 7 games, trailing Croatia by 3 points and a significant +15 goal difference. The Czechs have only one group match left at home against Gibraltar, meaning Croatia is virtually guaranteed a place in the 2026 World Cup, where 40-year-old Modrić will captain the team once again.

Modrić joined AC Milan this season on a free transfer and is an indispensable starter, having started all 6 Serie A matches so far, contributing 1 goal and 1 assist. In the World Cup qualifiers, he has played all 6 games, starting 3 times and providing 1 goal and 2 assists. Modrić will continue his form at AC Milan and will enter the 2026 World Cup in great shape, just like Messi, marking his final appearance on the World Cup stage.