Mansion Sports – The final Group L fixture of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers will feature an intriguing meeting between Montenegro and Croatia, two teams entering the match from vastly different competitive positions. 

Scheduled to take place on Monday evening, 17 November 2025, at Podgorica City Stadium, the encounter is anticipated to draw considerable attention as both nations approach the conclusion of their qualification journey under contrasting circumstances.

Team Conditions Ahead of the Match

Montenegro

Montenegro have endured a qualification campaign marked by inconsistency. They currently sit in fourth place with nine points, collected from three victories and four defeats. 

Their goal difference of minus eight—six goals scored and 14 conceded—highlights the defensive issues that have repeatedly hindered their progress.

Even so, their home form provides a glimmer of optimism, with two wins secured from three matches played in Podgorica. A 2–1 victory over Gibraltar in their latest outing served as a morale boost, although their overall trend across the last five fixtures remains unconvincing, with two wins and three losses.

In their most recent five World Cup Qualifying matches, Montenegro managed only one victory, while four defeats extinguished any remaining hopes of reaching the playoff stage. The clash against Croatia therefore represents their final opportunity to close the campaign on a more respectable note.

Certain adjustments may occur within the lineup. Risto Radunović is expected to make way for Marko Perović at left-back after being substituted early in the previous match. 

The midfield pairing of Andrija Bulatović and Vasilije Adžić remains likely to be maintained, and the attacking duo of Osmajic and Krstović is anticipated to lead the frontline once again.

Croatia

Croatia arrive with a vastly different outlook, having displayed dominance throughout Group L. With six wins and a single draw from seven matches, they have already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup as the 30th nation to book their ticket—marking their seventh appearance at the tournament.

Zlatko Dalić’s squad continue to uphold their impressive record established since finishing as World Cup runners-up in 2018 and securing third place in 2022.

Their consistency was once again evident in a 3–1 victory over the Faroe Islands in their most recent match.

With 23 goals scored and only two conceded, Croatia hold the best goal difference in the group. Their away performances have also been strong, producing two wins and a draw from three matches. Across their last five fixtures in all competitions, they remain unbeaten with four wins and one draw.

Their first meeting with Montenegro ended in a convincing 4–0 result, underscoring their superior organisation, creativity, and finishing. 

Mateo Kovačić remains unavailable due to injury and surgery, while the 40-year-old Luka Modrić continues to serve as the central figure in the midfield unit.

Group L Standings

Where to Watch Montenegro vs Croatia November 2025

For audiences planning to follow this match and seeking information on where to watch Montenegro vs Croatia November 2025, several official streaming platforms will broadcast the fixture, depending on regional availability:

• fuboTV
• FOX Sports
• DAZN
• beIN Sports
• Disney+
• FIFA+

The meeting between Montenegro and Croatia may no longer influence the group standings, yet the match remains engaging due to the contrasting qualities and approach of both teams, especially Croatia’s consistent performance throughout the qualification campaign.