Ante Budimir scored the only goal of the match as Croatia edged Panama 1-0 on Tuesday to keep their World Cup campaign alive and eliminate the Central American side from the tournament.
Both teams entered the Group L clash without a point and were well aware that defeat would end their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds, especially after England and Ghana played out a goalless draw earlier in the day.
Croatia struggled to break down Panama’s stubborn defence in the first half. The Central Americans stayed compact at the back and looked dangerous on the counterattack, frustrating their more experienced opponents.
The breakthrough finally arrived eight minutes into the second half. Marco Pasalic’s clever backheel released Josip Stanisic down the right flank and his cross was met by substitute Ante Budimir, who guided the ball into the net to give Croatia the lead.
The win made for a memorable evening for Luka Modric, who made his 200th appearance for Croatia. The 40-year-old midfielder once again led by example and was thrown into the air by his team-mates after the final whistle to celebrate the milestone.
“At 40 years of age, he was outstanding,” Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic said. “He led the team to victory and will go down as the greatest player in Croatian football history.”
The atmosphere at Toronto Stadium was vibrant, with supporters from both nations filling the stands with red, white and blue colours. Croatia’s fans added to the occasion by singing “Moja Domovina” before kickoff.
Panama, however, were far from overawed. They matched Croatia physically and caused several problems with their pace on the wings. Jose Luis Rodriguez and Amir Murillo repeatedly delivered dangerous balls into the box, but no Panama player could apply the finishing touch.
Panama continued to threaten after the break and came close to equalising in the 68th minute when Carlos Harvey’s header seemed destined for the net. Livakovic produced a fine save, tipping the ball over the crossbar.
Panama finished with more attempts on goal than Croatia but were unable to convert their chances.
Panama will now face group leaders England in their final match, still searching for their first-ever World Cup victory. Croatia, meanwhile, will take on Ghana in a crucial game that could decide who progresses to the knockout stage.
