FRISCO, Texas (Nov. 7, 2025) — After a record-breaking season in Major League Soccer, FC Dallas forward Petar Musa is heading back to international duty. The 27-year-old striker has been called up to represent Croatia’s national team for its final two World Cup Qualifier group-stage matches against the Faroe Islands and Montenegro — a crucial window as Croatia looks to lock up a spot in next summer’s tournament.

Croatia will first face the Faroe Islands on Friday, Nov. 14, at Stadion HNK Rijeka in Rijeka, before traveling to Podgorica City Stadium to meet Montenegro on Monday, Nov. 17. Both matches kick off at 1:45 p.m. CT.

“An Honor to Represent My Country”

For Musa, the call-up is both a reward for his stellar club season and a reminder of how far he has come since arriving in Frisco just two years ago.

“It is always an honor to represent Croatia,” Musa said. “We have worked hard this season in Dallas, and now I will give my all to help Croatia secure qualification to the upcoming World Cup.”

The Croatian striker’s inclusion comes at a pivotal time for his country, as manager Zlatko Dalić continues to blend experienced stars like Luka Modrić and Marcelo Brozović with emerging attacking talents such as Musa. His form in MLS — where he has become one of the league’s most efficient finishers — made his selection almost inevitable.

Record-Breaking Season in Frisco

Musa’s 2025 campaign with FC Dallas was nothing short of spectacular. The forward scored 19 goals across all competitions, tying Jason Kreis for the most goals ever by an FC Dallas player in a single season. His production was consistent from March through October, helping Dallas stay competitive in the Western Conference playoff race.

Since joining the club ahead of the 2024 season, Musa has scored 35 goals over two years, the most by any FC Dallas player in that span. His finishing ability, combined with his poise in the box and intelligent link-up play, has made him a cornerstone of the team’s attacking identity.

Musa also made his mark in the postseason, scoring his first MLS playoff goal in the club’s final match of the year against Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Nov. 1, 2025, further cementing his reputation as one of the league’s top forwards.

A Franchise-Defining Signing

When FC Dallas acquired Musa in the 2024 offseason, it was a statement of intent. The transfer represented the largest acquisition fee in franchise history, signaling the club’s ambition to compete with MLS’s elite.

General Manager André Zanotta described the move at the time as a “turning point” for the club — one that would elevate both its on-field performance and its international profile. Musa has delivered on that promise, becoming a fan favorite and a player synonymous with Dallas’ attacking evolution under head coach Nico Estévez.

Before arriving in MLS, Musa built a decorated career in Europe, playing for some of the continent’s most respected clubs. During his tenure with S.L. Benfica, he tallied 17 goals in 66 appearances, helping the Portuguese giants win the 2022–23 Liga Portugal title and the Portuguese Super Cup.

He also impressed during a loan spell with Boavista FC, where he netted 11 goals in the Primeira Liga, and spent time in Germany with Union Berlin, where he continued to develop his physical style and tactical awareness.

In his early years, Musa starred in the Czech Republic with Slavia Prague, Slovan Liberec, and Viktoria Žižkov, winning two league titles and a Czech Cup while earning the 2019–20 Golden Boot for leading scorer honors.

International Ambitions

Born in Zagreb, Croatia, Musa has steadily built his international résumé. He made his senior team debut in a 1–1 draw against Wales on March 25, 2023, during the European Qualifiers, and has since made six senior appearances for his country.

Musa also represented Croatia at the U-18 and U-21 levels, appearing in 14 matches combined, where he first showcased his potential as a prolific scorer capable of performing against elite competition.

Now, with Croatia vying to secure its place in the 2026 World Cup, Musa’s role could prove critical. His size, finishing instinct, and recent form make him a valuable option off the bench or as a starter in Dalić’s tactical setup.

Eyes on the Global Stage

For both Musa and FC Dallas, this call-up is a milestone moment. His international recognition underscores the club’s growing global influence and the Winger’s evolution into a world-class forward.

If Croatia qualifies, Musa could find himself representing his country on the sport’s grandest stage — a fitting chapter in a career that has thrived across continents.

“Petar’s journey shows what hard work and opportunity can create,” said FC Dallas head coach Nico Estévez. “We’re proud of what he’s accomplished here and excited to see him shine for his country.”

From Frisco to Rijeka, Musa’s story is proof that elite talent knows no borders — and that the next great chapter for FC Dallas’s star striker might just be written on the World Cup stage.