Croatia secured a spot in next year's World Cup with a 3-1 victory on Friday that ended the Faroe Islands' dream, while the Netherlands moved closer to qualification by drawing with Poland. Croatia knew before kickoff that avoiding defeat in Rijeka would guarantee qualification, but it was surprised in the 16th minute when Geza David Turi scored with a deflected shot. The 2018 World Cup runners-up recovered quickly, however, as Joško Gvardiol equalized in the 23rd. In complete control, Croatia added a third goal when Nikola Vlašić volleyed in a precise cross from Ivan Perišić at the far post. It was the Faroe Islands' final match in Group L, and the team will finish behind the runners-up, the Czech Republic. The second-placed team advances to the playoffs for the World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In the other group match, Montenegro beat Gibraltar 2-1. Making his return to the national team after two years away, Petar Musa put Croatia ahead 2-1 after halftime with an assist from Josip Stanišić.