Croatia’s Under-17 national team has secured progression to the Round of 16 at the FIFA U17 World Cup 2025 after a confident 3-1 win over Costa Rica in their final Group C match. 12BET Soccer highlights their impressive group-stage campaign and key performances that kept them unbeaten and moving toward the knockout rounds.
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FIFA U17 World Cup 2025: Croatia vs Costa Rica Highlights
In their decisive match, Croatia struck early to assert control. Dinamo Zagreb midfielder Krešimir Radoš opened the scoring in the 35th minute, meeting a perfect cross from captain Karlo Pajsar. Early chances had already indicated Croatia’s dominance, with a near-goal from Pajsar and a shot from Jona Benkotić hitting the crossbar.
Raul Kumar added a second goal in the 55th minute, heading in from a corner, before Costa Rica’s Raul Cordero responded just three minutes later with a long-range strike, marking Croatia’s first conceded goal of the tournament. Finally, Tino Kusanović sealed the 3-1 victory in the 89th minute with another header assisted by Pajsar. 12BET Soccer emphasizes that this performance demonstrated Croatia’s balance of clinical finishing and disciplined defense.
Group Stage Performance and Standings
Croatia finished second in Group C, following a 3-0 win over the UAE and a 0-0 draw against Senegal. With two wins and one draw, they emerged as the best second-placed team, positioning themselves strongly for the Round of 16. 12BET Soccer notes that this unbeaten run reflects consistent preparation under coach Marijan Budimir, combining tactical awareness with youth talent.
In other group results, Senegal topped the group on goal difference after a 5-0 victory over the UAE. Croatia’s placement ensures they will face a group winner or top-ranked second-placed side in the Round of 16, scheduled for November 14 and 15.
Key Players and Tactical Insights
Several Croatian players stood out during the group stages of the FIFA U17 World Cup 2025. Krešimir Radoš showcased midfield control, Raul Kumar dominated aerial duels, and Tino Kusanović proved decisive in attack. Captain Karlo Pajsar’s vision and leadership contributed directly to two assists in the Costa Rica match. 12BET Soccer highlights that these performances are critical for Croatia’s knockout hopes, as they will face stronger opposition in the next round.
Both teams experienced overturned penalties after VAR checks, showing the tournament’s strict officiating standards. Croatia’s ability to maintain composure under scrutiny reflects their mental strength and tactical discipline, according to 12BET Soccer.
Croatia’s Knockout Stage Prospects
Croatia enters the Round of 16 at the FIFA U17 World Cup 2025 full of confidence, having remained unbeaten in group play with two wins and a draw. 12BET Soccer predicts they have the potential to challenge for the quarterfinals, relying on standout performers like Radoš, Kumar, and Kusanović. With strong team cohesion and tactical awareness, Croatia could be one of the tournament’s dark horses as the youth teams compete for global honors.