Behind every goal, every save, and every victory are stories of hard work, sacrifice, and, for many of the stars of the 2026 World Cup, faith in God. Meet the Catholic soccer players and coaches who live out their faith both on and off the field.
1) Luka Modrić (Croatia)
The captain of the Croatian national team has participated in several Catholic events with his teammates, including a Mass for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity in the lead-up to the World Cup. He also keeps images of his family, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the Virgin Mary inside his shin guards, which he kisses before stepping onto the field.
2) Mateo Kovačić (Croatia)
Kovačić has said that his faith has sustained him, especially during the most difficult moments of his career, including the serious injury he suffered as a teenager. He has also shared that prayer gives him peace before matches and the strength to face competition.
On a personal level, he met his wife through their parish and has made several pilgrimages to the shrine of Medjugorje.
3) Kristijan Jakić (Croatia)
Before Croatia’s World Cup debut, the midfielder told EWTN:
“We are a Catholic country where faith is the path of our lives. I
