Modric’s Milestone Match Sees Croatia Edge Panama, Keep World Cup Hopes Alive

Toronto, June 2026 : Croatia secured their first points of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in a crucial Group L clash at Toronto Stadium on Tuesday. The win not only revived Croatia’s campaign but also confirmed Panama’s elimination from the tournament with one match still remaining in the group stage.

The evening carried special significance for Croatian captain Luka Modric, who celebrated his landmark 200th international appearance in style as his side delivered when it mattered most. The veteran midfielder, one of Croatia’s greatest-ever players, once again provided leadership and composure as his team bounced back from a disappointing start to the tournament.

Panama began the contest brightly and looked the more dangerous side during the opening half. The Central American nation created several promising opportunities and came agonisingly close to taking the lead in the 23rd minute. A powerful header from Jose Luis Rodriguez appeared destined for the net, but Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic produced a stunning save, tipping the ball onto the crossbar to keep the scores level.

The Croatian defence was repeatedly tested, but Livakovic’s alertness and experience ensured Panama could not make their early dominance count. Croatia, meanwhile, struggled to find rhythm in attack during the first 45 minutes and entered the break knowing significant improvement was required.

The 2018 World Cup finalists emerged with greater purpose in the second half and gradually began to assert control over proceedings. Their breakthrough arrived in the 54th minute through substitute Ante Budimir, whose impact off the bench proved decisive.

The goal stemmed from a brilliantly crafted move down the right flank. Josip Stanisic delivered a precise low cross into the penalty area, and Budimir timed his run perfectly to arrive at the far post and slot the ball home, giving Croatia a crucial 1-0 lead.

Croatia nearly doubled their advantage just three minutes later. Marco Pasalic found himself in an excellent scoring position, but Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera made an impressive save before Pasalic blasted the rebound over the bar, allowing Panama to remain in contention.

Despite trailing, Panama continued to push forward in search of an equaliser. However, they repeatedly encountered Livakovic, who produced another assured display between the posts. The Croatian goalkeeper denied several late attempts and ensured his side maintained their slender advantage until the final whistle.

The victory was particularly memorable for Modric, whose 200th cap added another remarkable chapter to an extraordinary international career. The midfield maestro has now featured in each of Croatia’s last 21 FIFA World Cup matches, a streak dating back to the team’s second group-stage encounter against Japan in 2006.

With the result, Croatia remain alive in the race for a place in the knockout rounds, while Panama’s hopes of advancing came to an end.

Score: Croatia 1 (Ante Budimir 54′) beat Panama 0.

Group L: Croatia earn their first points of the tournament, while Panama are eliminated from FIFA World Cup 2026 contention.