Croatia boosted their chances of reaching the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama, a result that ended the Central American nation’s hopes of progressing from Group L.
The Croatians, who were eager to recover from their 4-2 loss to England in their opening match, found the breakthrough early in the second half through Ante Budimir.
Budimir struck in the 54th minute, turning home a delivery from Josip Stanisic to hand Croatia a crucial three points in Toronto.
Panama had impressed defensively throughout the contest and nearly took the lead in the first half when Jose Luis Rodriguez’s header was brilliantly tipped onto the crossbar by goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.
Veteran midfielder Luka Modric, making his 200th appearance for Croatia, also had an early chance but headed over the bar.
Croatia almost doubled their advantage moments after scoring when Marco Pasalic raced through on goal following a precise pass from Modric. However, Orlando Mosquera denied his first effort before the midfielder blazed the rebound over the crossbar.
Panama pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages but were unable to find a way past the Croatian defence, extending their World Cup scoring drought.
Despite the defeat and elimination, Panama coach Thomas Christiansen praised his team’s efforts.
“You cannot win a match if you don’t score,” Christiansen said.
The Danish-born manager added that he was “super proud” of his players and believes the experience gained at the tournament will benefit them in the future.
“These players, after these two World Cup matches, won’t be where they are today,” he said.
The victory keeps Croatia firmly in contention for a place in the last 32, while Panama bow out of the tournament after another spirited performance.
