With no tournament form to draw on, this prediction relies on general team quality. Croatia, despite an aging core, still possesses elite technicians like Modric, but at a neutral Lincoln Financial Field the advantage is reduced. Ghana's athleticism and threat on the counter, led by Kudus and Partey, can trouble Croatia's defense. Opening matches often see cautious play, and a draw is a realistic outcome. Probabilities calibrated: Croatia win 0.42 (slight favorite), draw 0.33 (high likelihood given evenness), Ghana win 0.25. A tight 1-1 scoreline reflects the balance of play, with Modric orchestrating for Croatia and Ghana capitalizing on a set-piece or transition moment.