Croatia remain one of the tournament's most experienced game-state teams, even as the midfield moves deeper into a generational transition.
Croatia's control still depends on midfield timing, press resistance, and the ability to slow matches when opponents want transition chaos.
Key question: Can Croatia keep enough central control against England and Ghana while refreshing an aging core?
Knockout ceiling: Round of 16 or quarter-final upside if their midfield still controls pressure moments.
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