The American Verdict

The stage is set for the biggest World Cup in history. From June 11 to July 19, the United States, Canada, and Mexico will host 48 nations in a tournament that expands the format to 12 groups of four. The top two from each group, plus the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout rounds. But who holds the crown before the first whistle blows? American sports media love their power rankings, and USA Today dropped their latest update on June 1.

According to journalist Jon Arnold, Croatia sits at number 17. That’s right behind nations like Colombia, Japan, Norway, the USA, Mexico, Belgium, Ecuador, and Senegal. The ranking is clear: Spain is the favorite, followed by France and Argentina. But why is Croatia ranked so low?

The Age Factor

The reasoning is blunt. "After finishing on the podium in the last two tournaments, bet against Croatia at your own risk," USA Today writes. "Despite a young and strong defense, Luka Modric at 40 and Ivan Perisic at 37 must slow down at some point." It’s a respect mixed with caution. The veterans of Zlatko Dalic’s squad are legends, but physics is a cruel opponent. Bosnia and Herzegovina sits much lower at 34, while Turkey is 22nd.

A Different Perspective

Not everyone agrees. Alexi Lalas, the former US defender and Fox Sports analyst, released his own list in early May. He placed Croatia at number 10, a significantly higher position. The debate is already heating up. Who is right? Only time—and the pitch—will tell.

COMMENT: usa today really thinks modric is done at 40? lol. they have no idea what this team is made of. let them doubt. we’ll see in june.