24.06.2026 09:00
Croatia won their first victory in Group L of the World Cup by defeating Panama 1-0 with a goal from Ante Budimir in their second match. Panama, with their second loss, was eliminated from the tournament.
In the second week of Group L of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Croatia faced Panama. Croatia won the match 1-0 at BMO Field in Toronto.
NO GOAL IN THE FIRST HALF
In the first half, both teams displayed a controlled game. During the first 45 minutes, neither side managed a shot on target, and the match went into halftime goalless.
BUDIMIR ENTERED THE GAME AND DECIDED IT
Ante Budimir, brought on by Croatia's head coach Zlatko Dalic at the start of the second half, became the player who secured the victory for his team. Entering the game in the 46th minute, the experienced footballer found the back of the net in the 54th minute, putting his team ahead. Despite Panama pressing for an equalizer in the remaining minutes, they could not break through Croatia's defense.
CROATIA KEEPS HOPE ALIVE
With this result, Croatia increased their points to 3, keeping their chances of advancing to the round of 32 alive. Panama, who also left their second match without points, were eliminated from the tournament in the group stage.
MODRIC'S DOUBLE MILESTONE
Starting the match in the first XI, Luka Modric played his 21st match in his FIFA World Cup career. The 40-year-old star player ranks among those with the most appearances in the tournament since his first World Cup match in 2006. In this period, only Lionel Messi with 27 matches and Cristiano Ronaldo with 23 have more.
Additionally, Modric played his 200th match for the Croatian national team against Panama. Moreover, the number of matches featuring players aged 40 and over in the 2026 World Cup reached 10, setting a tournament record.
CRITICAL MATCH IN THE FINAL WEEK
In the final week of Group L, Croatia will face Ghana, while Panama will take on England.