Croatia Toils But Avoids Brink; Blackman's Panama Needs a Miracle to Advance

Pulse Sports Team 02:12 - 24 June 2026

Croatia's footballers secured their first victory at the 2026 World Cup. In a Group L clash in Toronto, they defeated Panama 1-0, with substitute Ante Budimir scoring in the second half. Panama, after their second loss, has been eliminated from contention for the Round of 16. ŠK Slovan Bratislava player Cesar Blackman played the entire match for Panama.

All information about the 2026 FIFA World Cup in one place >>

Croatian captain Luka Modrić celebrated his 200th national team appearance with a victory. His team now sits on three points in third place in the group standings, maintaining a realistic chance of advancing to the knockout stage. Slovan Bratislava defender Cesar Blackman once again featured in Panama's starting lineup.

You could follow the Panama - Croatia match LIVE on ŠPORT.sk >>

Panama will likely conclude their tournament run on Saturday, June 27th, when they face England in East Rutherford at 11:00 PM CEST. Croatia will play Ghana in a parallel match in Philadelphia.