Dhaka, Nov 15 (V7N) — Croatia have officially booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 3–1 comeback victory over the Faroe Islands, while Germany secured a strong win in their qualifier, and the Netherlands were held to a draw by Poland.

In Friday’s European World Cup qualifying fixtures, Croatia—playing at home in Group L—fell behind in the 16th minute when Geza David scored for the Faroe Islands. The hosts equalized in the 23rd minute through defender Joško Verdiol. Petar Musa put Croatia ahead in the 57th minute, and Nikola Vlašić sealed the 3–1 win in the 70th minute. With this result, Croatia confirmed their World Cup qualification with one match still to play.

In Group A, Germany earned a 2–0 victory over Luxembourg. Despite a goalless first half, Julian Nagelsmann’s side found their rhythm after the break. Young Newcastle United forward Tim Oltmead scored in the 49th minute and added his second in the 69th minute. Germany now lead the group on goal difference with 12 points from five matches, level with Slovakia. Their showdown on Monday will determine which team qualifies directly for the World Cup.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands were held 1–1 by Poland in their Group G match. Jakub Kaminski put Poland ahead in the 43rd minute, but Memphis Depay equalized four minutes later. With no further goals, the Dutch were forced to wait to confirm their World Cup spot. They will secure qualification with at least a draw against Lithuania on Monday.

Twenty teams—including Belgium, Spain, Austria, and Switzerland—are scheduled to play their qualifiers on Saturday night as the race to secure World Cup berths intensifies.

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