Portugal vs Croatia: How to Watch the 2026 World Cup Match Live

Anna Müller · 2026-07-02

Soccer fans, get ready. Portugal and Croatia are set to clash in a 2026 World Cup qualifier that promises high stakes and even higher drama. If you're in the United States and wondering how to catch every minute of the action, you've come to the right place. Let's be real—tracking international matches across time zones can be a headache. But with a little planning, you won't miss a single goal. Here's everything you need to know to watch Portugal take on Croatia live. ### Where to Watch the Match In the US, the game will be broadcast on major sports networks like Fox Sports and Univision. You can also stream it live through services like FuboTV, Sling TV, or YouTube TV. Most of these platforms offer free trials, so if you don't have a subscription yet, now's the time to grab one. - **TV Channels:** Fox Sports 1, Univision, TUDN - **Streaming Options:** FuboTV, Sling TV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV - **Kickoff Time:** 2:45 PM Eastern Time (adjust for your time zone) Check your local listings a day before the match to confirm exact timing. Sometimes networks shift schedules for pre-game shows. ### Why This Match Matters Both teams are stacked with talent. Portugal still leans on Cristiano Ronaldo's leadership, even as younger stars like Bruno Fernandes and Rafael Leão step up. Croatia's midfield—led by Luka Modrić—remains one of the most experienced in world soccer. This isn't just a friendly; it's a World Cup qualifier that could shape group standings. > "This is the kind of game where experience meets hunger. Both sides have everything to prove." The winner gains serious momentum heading into the tournament. The loser faces an uphill battle. Expect intensity from the first whistle. ### How to Stream Without Cable If you've cut the cord, you still have options. Streaming services are the easiest way to watch live soccer without a traditional cable package. Here's what we recommend: - **FuboTV:** Offers a dedicated sports package with Fox and Univision. Price starts at $74.99 per month. - **Sling TV:** Cheaper option at $40 per month, but check if your local Fox affiliate is included. - **YouTube TV:** Includes all major sports channels for $72.99 per month. Unlimited DVR storage. Most of these services offer free trials lasting 7 to 14 days. That's plenty of time to catch this match and a few more without paying a cent. ### Time Zone Tips for US Viewers International matches often air in the middle of the day for US audiences. The Portugal vs Croatia game kicks off at 2:45 PM Eastern, which means: - **Eastern Time:** 2:45 PM - **Central Time:** 1:45 PM - **Mountain Time:** 12:45 PM - **Pacific Time:** 11:45 AM Set an alarm. You don't want to walk into the living room at halftime wondering who scored. ### Final Thoughts Whether you're a die-hard Portugal fan or you just love watching world-class soccer, this match is worth your time. Grab some snacks, settle into your favorite chair, and enjoy the game. And if you're streaming, make sure your Wi-Fi is solid—nothing worse than buffering during a penalty kick. Bookmark this page for quick reference on match day. We'll keep it updated with any schedule changes or streaming updates as the tournament approaches. Now go enjoy the beautiful game.