Croatia secured their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their second Group L fixture at Toronto Stadium on Wednesday.
A second half goal from substitute Ante Budimir was enough to separate both sides, boosting Croatia’s hopes of progressing to the round of 32.
The result also confirmed Panama’s elimination from the tournament as they are the only team in Group L yet to record a point. The North American side had suffered a 1-0 defeat to Ghana in their opening match.
After a quiet first half, Croatia opened the scoring against Panama in the 54th minute. Substitute Budimir who had come on at the beginning of the second half, broke the deadlock, tapping in at the back post after a brilliant delivery across goal from Josip Stanisic to make the scoreline 1-0.
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Croatia came very close to doubling their lead few minutes later as Marco Pasalic was played through on goal by Luka Modric, only to see his lobbed attempt smothered by Orlando Mosquera. The goalkeeper then spilled the ball, giving Pasalic another opportunity, but the attacker failed to hit the target.
A brilliant double save from Dominik Livakovic in the 68th minute ensured Croatia kept their one-goal advantage. Few seconds later, the goalkeeper made another superb stop, tipping Carlos Harvey‘s close-range header over the woodwork.
Thomas Christiansen’s side continued to attack desperately in search of an equaliser to keep their qualification hopes alive, but Croatia held on to their lead, securing all three points, while eliminating Panama.
The result sees Croatia move up to third in Group L with three points, one point behind England and Ghana. Panama, who gave a good account of themselves despite losing their two games so far, bow out at the group stage.
Panama will conclude their tournament on Saturday, June 27, with a clash against England, who will be looking to win as they eye top spot in the group. At the same time, Croatia will take on Ghana in an exciting matchup where the winner qualifies automatically to the round of 32.
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