Ivan Perisic brings unmatched experience to Croatia's 2026 World Cup campaign, having represented his nation for 21 years across seven major tournaments. The veteran winger was instrumental in Croatia's historic run to the 2018 World Cup final and third-place finish in 2022, establishing himself as the country's top scorer in major tournaments with crucial performances on the world stage.

Croatia consistently overachieves as a nation of just 3.8 million people, punching above their weight through passion and unity. Perisic credits this success to the players' commitment and the country's footballing culture, which has produced talents like Luka Modric and Josko Gvardiol who thrive under the weight of national expectations at tournaments like the World Cup.

The upcoming England match on June 17 holds special significance for Perisic, who spent two years with Tottenham. Having scored against England in the 2018 semi-final, the veteran winger acknowledges the mutual respect between the nations and the added motivation that comes from facing Premier League opponents again. The match kicks off Croatia's campaign in North America, where they'll aim to continue their tradition of World Cup success.