Croatia utilized a 4-3-3 formation focusing on possession and buildup play, with Modrić orchestrating from midfield and Perišić attacking from the left flank. Japan, in a similar 4-3-3, relied on counters and wing play, exploiting the spaces left by Croatia's fullbacks. The opening goal came from Maeda, effectively taking advantage of a defensive lapse during a corner. Croatia responded with intensity, adjusting to push more players forward, with Kramarić and Rebić applying pressure and creating opportunities for Perišić to equalize. The match highlighted Croatia's experience in high-stakes scenarios, culminating in a composed penalty shootout performance led by Livaković's decisive saves.