FIFA WC: Modric marks 200th cap as Croatia eliminate Panama
Toronto, June 24
Croatia earned their first points of the FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in Group L, a result at the Toronto Stadium also confirmed Los Canaleros' elimination from the competition with one game remaining.
Croatia's pedigree surfaced at the right moment and they have taken this crucial Group L encounter, earning their first points of World Cup 2026 and celebrating Luka Modric's 200th cap in winning style.
Modric has featured in each of Croatia's last 21 matches at the FIFA World Cup, a sequence stretching back to their second group-stage game against Japan in 2006.
Panama were the better side in the first half at Toronto Stadium and very nearly opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic did superbly to tip Jose Luis Rodriguez's powerful header on to the crossbar.
Croatia established more of a foothold after the interval though, and took the lead in the 54th minute when substitute Ante Budimir tucked in at the back post after Josip Stanisic's delicious low cross from the right, FIFA reports.
Marco Pasalic had a glorious chance to double his side's lead three minutes later, but was first denied by Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera and then blazed the rebound off target.
Panama also continued to threaten but found Livakovic in inspired form between the posts and were unable to muster the goal they needed to secure a maiden World Cup point. Instead it was all smiles for Croatia and their inspirational captain Luka Modric, who celebrated his 200th international cap with yet another win on the global showpiece.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I'm happy for Croatia but honestly, Panama played some really good football in the first half. They just need more experience at this level. That save by Livakovic from the header was world-class. As an Indian fan, I wish our team gets to play against such quality opposition someday. Baby steps! ⚽
Modric at 40 still running the show! That man is ageless. Croatia's midfield with Modric, Kovacic, and Brozovic is still top-notch. Panama gave them a scare though. India should take notes on how Croatia developed world-class players despite being a small nation. It's about proper grassroots development, not just money.
Panama's goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera was outstanding! Made some brilliant saves to keep them in the game. But Croatia's experience showed in the end. Modric celebrating 200 caps with a win is a perfect story. Reminds me of Sunil Chhetri's journey for India - consistency and passion matter above all ❤️
I honestly felt Panama were unlucky. They hit the crossbar and had some good chances. Croatia scraped through but that's what champions do - win ugly when needed. Modric's 200 caps is just staggering. In India, we need to appreciate our football legends more instead of always comparing with cricket.
Respect to Luka Modric - 200 international caps is insane! 🐐 Croatia showed their fighting spirit. Panama will learn from this experience. As an Indian football fan, I'm just happy to see the World Cup expanding. One day we'll be there too, inshallah!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.