Faroe Islands vs Croatia Prediction & Betting Tips (5 September)

The Faroe Islands welcome Croatia to Tórsvøllur on September 5th in a World Championship 2026 Group L qualifier that promises more tension than the standings suggest. Eyðun Klakstein’s Faroese side, though winless in their last three competitive outings, have shown flashes of resilience—most notably in their narrow 2-1 loss to Czechia. With a squad built around domestic stalwarts like Viljormur Davidsen and the versatile Brandur Olsen, the Faroe Islands are banking on home advantage and disciplined defending to frustrate a Croatian side that has been ruthless in recent fixtures.

Croatia, under the seasoned guidance of Zlatko Dalić, arrive in Tórshavn riding high after demolishing Gibraltar 7-0 and Czech Republic 5-1 in June. Despite the absence of Mateo Kovačić due to surgery, the Vatreni boast a midfield rich in experience and flair—Luka Modrić, still hungry at 39, anchors the team with Martin Baturina and Petar Sučić offering youthful dynamism. The attack is spearheaded by Ante Budimir, whose recent form places him among Europe’s elite strikers. Dalić has hinted at squad rotation, but with qualification stakes rising, expect Croatia to field a near full-strength lineup.

Yet, the Faroe Islands are no strangers to defying expectations. Their defensive setup, led by Gunnar Vatnhamar and Odmar Færø, has kept stronger sides at bay before. The key will be converting limited chances—perhaps through the pace of Petur Knudsen or the guile of Meinhard Olsen. Klakstein’s men will likely sit deep, absorb pressure, and look to strike on the counter. Croatia’s high defensive line could be vulnerable if the Faroese midfield can thread the right pass at the right moment.

Prediction: a 2-1 upset in favor of the Faroe Islands. While Croatia’s pedigree is undeniable, the timing of the fixture—early September, post-club season fatigue—and the hostile northern conditions could tilt the balance. With Modrić orchestrating but the Faroese crowd roaring, this match has the makings of a classic underdog triumph.