2026 World Cup: Croatia Eliminate Panama, Keep Knockout Hopes Alive

Croatia kept their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive after edging Panama 1-0 in a hard-fought Group L encounter on Tuesday.

The victory ended Panama’s chances of progressing to the Round of 32 while handing Croatia a crucial three points ahead of their decisive final group match.

Ante Budimir emerged as the hero for the Croatians, scoring the only goal of the game in the 54th minute to secure victory for the European side.

Croatia entered the match under pressure following a disappointing 4-2 defeat to England in their opening group fixture and knew anything less than a win would leave their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Panama, making only their second World Cup appearance, produced a spirited display and nearly stunned their more experienced opponents in the first half.

Their best opportunity came in the 23rd minute when Jose Luis Rodriguez directed a header toward goal, only for Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic to tip the effort onto the crossbar.

Croatia gradually gained control after the break and found the breakthrough when Budimir tapped home a cross from Josip Stanisic, sending the Croatian supporters inside the stadium into celebration.

The 2018 World Cup finalists almost doubled their advantage moments later when Luka Modric’s precise pass released Marco Pasalic through on goal.

However, Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera made an excellent save before Pasalic blasted the rebound over the crossbar.

Despite trailing, Panama continued to search for an equaliser but were unable to end their World Cup goal drought, ultimately crashing out of the tournament.

Panama coach Thomas Christiansen praised his players despite the defeat.

“You cannot win a match if you don’t score,” he said, adding that he remained proud of the team’s effort and progress on the global stage.

The match also marked a significant milestone for Croatian captain Luka Modric, who made his 200th international appearance for his country.

The 40-year-old midfielder received a standing ovation when he was substituted late in the game and was later celebrated by teammates after the final whistle.

Croatia now move to three points and will face Ghana in their final group match, with a place in the knockout rounds at stake.

Panama, meanwhile, will conclude their campaign against England before heading home from the tournament.