Croatia kept their World Cup aspirations alive with a tough 1-0 win against Panama in their Group L game on Tuesday.
The victory enabled Croatia to secure its first three points of the tournament and resulted in Panama’s elimination from the World Cup.
Both sides were under pressure when they faced each other in the match. After the first matches, neither of the teams had scored a point and a loss would see them knocked out after England and Ghana ended their first match with a goalless draw.
The game was held in Toronto with thousands of enthusiastic fans from both sides.
The ball was mostly possessed by Croatia, but Panama defended strongly and made it very challenging for them to get into a clear position.
Panama was also a risk at times for Croatia, coming up with some good attacks during the match, but were not able to score a goal.
Then it finally happened in the second half.
Ante Budimir scored the goal for Croatia, giving Croatia the lead and sent Croatian fans into a frenzy.
Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera made a crucial save to keep Panama in the game later in the game when Croatia had a chance to double their lead.
Winning this match was especially significant for the Croatian captain Luka Modric, as it marked his 200th international match for Croatia.
His teammates then lifted him into the air as they celebrated the milestone at the end of the game.
Panama has been eliminated from the tournament, but will be playing the final group game against England.
Croatia, on the other hand, will play Ghana in a crucial match which will decide their fate in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Also read: FIFA World Cup 2026: Schedule for football fans in Pakistan
