World Cup: Croatia Keeps Knockout Hopes Alive with 1-0 Win Over Panama, Panama Eliminated

2026 World Cup Key News

(CNA Toronto, June 23, via Reuters) Croatia defeated Panama 1-0 in the World Cup today. Josip Stanisic's cross in the 54th minute was met by Ante Budimir, who slotted the ball into an empty net.

According to the Associated Press, Croatia will face Ghana in their final group stage match on the 27th and still holds hope of advancing to the knockout stage, while Panama has been confirmed out, having never scored a point in their two World Cup appearances.

After a slow-paced first half at BMO Field in Toronto, Croatia broke through Panama's solid defense after halftime. Substitute Budimir scored just four minutes after entering the game.

Only three minutes later, the Croatian "Vatreni" (Fiery Ones) nearly scored again. Luka Modric, celebrating his 200th national team appearance at the age of 40, assisted on a counter-attack. Marco Pasalic seized the opportunity on the fast break, but his shot was saved by Panama's goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera.

In the 67th minute, Panama had three consecutive chances to equalize. However, Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic made three spectacular saves in a row, narrowly tipping the ball over the crossbar on the third attempt.

The qualifiers for Group L will be decided on the 27th. England and Ghana currently share the top spot with 4 points each, followed closely by Croatia with 3 points. England will face Panama in East Rutherford, New Jersey, while Ghana and Croatia will clash in Philadelphia. (Compiled by Chen Yu-ting) 1150624

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