Panama’s World Cup journey came to an end on Wednesday after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Croatia, a result that officially eliminated the Central American side from the 2026 tournament and revived Croatian hopes of reaching the last 32.
Croatia entered the match under pressure following their 4-2 loss to England in the opening round and knew only a win would keep their campaign alive.
They eventually found the breakthrough early in the second half, when Ante Budimir converted from close range in the 54th minute after being picked out by Josip Stanisic.
The game also marked a major personal milestone for Luka Modrić, who made his 200th appearance for Croatia.
The veteran midfielder was at the heart of Croatia’s control in the second half and nearly helped put the result beyond doubt, sending Marco Pašalić through on goal shortly after Budimir’s strike.
But the forward failed to convert after seeing his initial effort saved by Orlando Mosquera.
Panama had their moments, particularly in the first half when José Luis Rodríguez came close to opening the scoring with a header that was brilliantly tipped onto the bar by Dominik Livaković.
However, they were unable to find a way through and their struggles in front of goal continued, extending their scoreless run in World Cup play.
The defeat leaves Panama with back-to-back losses and no chance of progression ahead of their final group game against England.
Croatia, meanwhile, move onto three points and will now face Ghana in a decisive showdown for a place in the knockout stage.
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