Penalty goal gives Mexico victory
Cuauhtemoc Blanco netted from the spot in a 1-0 victory over Croatia in the opening match of group G.
Blanco Bliss - Images from the match

At France '98, Croatia secured third place on their debut appearance at the World Cup. Something remarkable! The squad this time is more mature and has outstanding talent.

The Croats are disciplined though a touch defensive. Swift on the counter, they should impress once again. Drawn against Italy, Ecuador and Mexico, they should have it easy in the first round.

Squad:

Goalkeepers:
Stipe Pletikosa, Tomislav Butina, Vladimir Vasilj.

Defenders:
Robert Jarni, Robert Kovac, Goran Sablic, Daniel Saric, Ante Seric, Dario Simic, Josip Simunic, Boris Zivkovic.

Midfielders:
Niko Kovac, Robert Prosinecki, Zvonimir Soldo, Stjepan Tomas, Jurica Vranjes, Davor Vugrinec.

Forwards:
Bosko Balaban, Alen Boksic, Ivica Olic, Milan Rapaic, Mario Stanic, Davor Suker.

June 13, 2002

Qualifying campaign

Semi-final group stage L 1-2 Barbados (a) W 2-1 USA (h) W 2-1 Guatemala (h) W 3-0 Barbados (h) D 0-0 USA (a) L 1-2 Guatemala (a) Play-off W 5-2 Guatemala

May 29, 2001