Luka Modrić Not One for Grand Celebrations. Croatia Coach: He'd Rather Avoid It

In a Group L clash held in Toronto, Canada, Croatia secured a 1-0 victory thanks to Ante Budimir's goal in the 54th minute. Panama had a golden opportunity to take the lead earlier in the match.

In the 23rd minute, Jose Luis Rodriguez's header nearly found the back of the net, but the outstretched fingertips of Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livaković deflected the ball onto the crossbar.

"You can't win a game if you don't score," stated Panama's Danish-born coach Thomas Christiansen. "However, I am proud of how the players fought and battled against a heavily favored opponent. I believe that two World Cup matches will elevate my players' careers to the next level," Christiansen added.

Legendary Croatian player Luka Modrić made his 200th international appearance. The almost 41-year-old native of Zadar nearly celebrated with a goal, but his header sailed over the Panamanian crossbar.

The second half saw a clear shift in the Croatian team's dynamic. Nearly 43,000 spectators in Toronto, with a strong Croatian majority, erupted when Budimir capitalized on a cross from Josip Stanišić for the winning goal.

Modrić left the field after 81 minutes, prompting a thunderous ovation at the Toronto stadium. After the final whistle, his teammates lifted him into the air, chanting his name. "Luka would rather avoid all this attention. He is very modest and down-to-earth. He's not really one for big celebrations, but I'm very glad we commemorated his 200th cap for the national team," said coach Zlatko Dalić.

"Modrić is a born leader, not someone who needs to impose his leadership role on the team. That's what makes Luka a quality person," the Croatian coach added.

Croatia now has three points and will battle Ghana for a spot in the Round of 16. Ghana has four points after a narrow triumph over Panama and a goalless draw with England.