4 Key Takeaways from Croatia's Strong Win over Panama in the World Cup
June 24, 2026 · Global
Croatia secured a crucial 1-0 win over Panama, keeping their World Cup hopes alive. The match showed Croatia's resilience and highlighted key performances, particularly from Luka Modrić and Ante Budimir.
After a lackluster first half, Croatia cruised to a 1-0 win over Panama in Toronto, giving them three valuable World Cup points — one point behind Group L leaders England and Ghana who had previously drawn 0-0. This victory gives Croatia, England and Ghana a big chance on the final day of group play, where a win could put one of them at the top of the group. Meanwhile, for Panama, their journey stops here even though they have fought hard. Here are some highlights from the match:
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Croatia Wakes Up From Sleep
When Croatia come back, they can be very dangerous. The only goal in this match proved that. The start of the match showed Panama appearing more calm and creative in attacking Croatia on the counter-attack. Panama coach, Thomas Christiansen, has organized his team well and provided a threat from the wings. However, as time went on, Croatia — who were finalists in 2018 and third in 2022 — started to take control of the game, although Panama still had the best chances to score. At the end of the first half, the score remained goalless. Zlatko Dalić instructed his team to increase the intensity, and they lived up to expectations. Thanks to substitute Ante Budimir, who scored his first goal for the national team in a year, Croatia took the lead. The goal was the result of a superb cross from Josip Stanisic. Although Panama fought hard, it was not enough to stop Croatia. Dalić is aware that they need to perform better against Ghana in Philadelphia. -
Modrić Joins The Elite
In a tournament full of veteran players, Croatia's Luka Modrić took the spotlight. The 40-year-old midfielder has made his 200th appearance for his national team, joining Cristiano Ronaldo, Bader Al-Mutawa and Lionel Messi. This is an incredible achievement from one of the best players in modern football history. For 80 minutes, Modrić again showed excellent performance, controlling the game and being the general of the field.
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Cristian Martínez From Panama Makes An Unforgettable Night
Despite losing, Panama showed a high fighting spirit, thanks to the performance of Cristian Martínez on the right wing. The midfielder who plays for the Israeli club, Ironi Kiryat Shmona, was not afraid to face Joško Gvardiol and appeared consistent against the Manchester City defender. This moment is a golden opportunity for Martínez after previously failing to appear in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Even though Panama was eliminated, they can feel proud of tonight's performance. -
Croatia Should Be More Dangerous in the Penalty Box
Croatia did manage to win and had more chances, but Panama created more opportunities in the penalty box. Croatia seemed hesitant to enter the dangerous zone and instead invited their opponents to attack. For the upcoming match, especially if they advance to the knockout round, Croatia must be more aggressive in both attack and defense.
Group L is still very tight. Croatia, who now have three points, will face four-point Ghana on Saturday in Philadelphia, along with England's match against Panama at New York's New Jersey Stadium.