The third time Croatia's fate was decided by the penalty shootout was in the Round of 16 the current World Cup. It faced Japan and drew 1-1 after 120 minutes. It beat the Asian side 3-1 in the shoot out. Croatia is one of the two teams to have a 100% record from penalty shootouts - three out of three.

The penalty-takers in a shootout are chosen by the coach from all eligible players. Any player serving a major or game misconduct penalty at the end of the game cannot participate.