Croatia boosted their chances of reaching the World Cup round of 32 with a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama on Tuesday, a result that ended the Central Americans’ hopes of advancing from Group L.
The Croatians, semifinalists at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, responded well after suffering a 4-2 defeat to England in their opening match.
Ante Budimir’s second-half strike ultimately separated the two sides in Toronto.
Panama coach Thomas Christiansen admitted his team paid the price for failing to convert their chances.
“You cannot win a match if you don’t score,” the Danish-born manager said after the game.
Despite the defeat, Christiansen praised his players for their determination against a stronger and more highly ranked opponent.
“I am super proud” of the team, he said, adding that Panama had made significant progress despite their early exit.
“These players, after these two World Cup matches, won’t be where they are today.”
Croatia captain Luka Modric marked his 200th international appearance, but his early header failed to trouble Panama as it sailed over the crossbar.
Panama, appearing at only their second World Cup after building a reputation for defensive discipline under Christiansen, nearly took the lead midway through the first half.
Jose Luis Rodriguez’s header appeared destined for the net before goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic stretched to tip the ball onto the bar.
The game’s decisive moment arrived nine minutes after the restart. Josip Stanisic delivered a dangerous cross that Budimir converted from close range, sparking celebrations among the largely Croatian crowd of 43,000 spectators.
Croatia almost doubled their lead moments later when Modric released Marco Pasalic with a perfectly timed pass.
However, Orlando Mosquera denied the forward’s first effort, and Pasalic sent the rebound high over the bar.
Panama pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages but were unable to end their World Cup scoring drought.
The eliminated Panamanians will conclude their campaign against England on Friday, while Croatia, now on three points, will battle Ghana for a place in the knockout rounds after the Africans earned a goalless draw with England earlier in the day.
‘Very humble’
After the match, Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic paid tribute to Modric following the veteran midfielder’s landmark appearance.
The 40-year-old was substituted in the 81st minute to a standing ovation and was later hoisted into the air by teammates after the final whistle.
“It could be that Luka might want to avoid all this,” Dalic said.
“He’s very humble, he’s very simple.”
Dalic added that Modric is not a player who seeks attention.
“He truly is not for major celebrations, but I’m very glad that we marked this today.”
The Croatia coach also described his captain as a natural leader whose influence comes through his character rather than authority.
“That’s what makes Luka a quality person,” Dalic said.
