Budimir Strike Eliminates Panama as Croatia Revive Group L Hopes

Croatia beat Panama 1–0 at Toronto Stadium to claim their first points at the 2026 World Cup and eliminate the debutants with a matchday to spare. Panama were the better side in the first half and Jose Luis Rodriguez's powerful header was tipped onto the crossbar by Dominik Livakovic on 23 minutes, but substitute Ante Budimir converted Josip Stanisic's low cross at the back post on 54 minutes after Zlatko Dalic's side improved after the break.

Cristian Martinez was named Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match as Panama finished with 42% possession, eight shots and one on target to Croatia's six and two in front of 43,036 fans. Marco Pasalic was denied by Orlando Mosquera and then blazed the rebound wide on 57 minutes, Livakovic made several fine saves as Panama pressed late, and Yoel Bárcenas and Petar Sucic were booked. Luka Modric celebrated his 200th international cap with a vital away win.

Croatia move onto three points in Group L behind England and Ghana on four, and must beat the Black Stars in Philadelphia on 27 June to reach the last 32. Panama remain without a point after two defeats and face England in East Rutherford on the final matchday, though their first World Cup campaign is already over.