SOCCER: Budimir strike gives Croatia 1-0 win and ends Panama's hopes

TORONTO — Ante Budimir scored the decisive goal as Croatia edged Panama 1-0 in their FIFA World Cup Group L match on Tuesday, securing their first three points of the tournament and eliminating the Central American side from contention.

Both teams entered the match still searching for their first win, knowing that defeat would end their World Cup hopes after England and Ghana played to a 0-0 draw earlier in the group.

Croatia struggled to break down Panama’s disciplined and well organized defensive setup in the first half. Panama’s back line held firm, while goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic encouraged the Croatian supporters behind his goal to raise the intensity as halftime approached.

The European side improved after the break and found the breakthrough in the 53rd minute. Substitute Ante Budimir finished a precise cross from Josip Stanisic, finishing off a move that began with a clever backheel from Marco Pasalic on the right wing.

The match also marked a milestone night for Croatia captain Luka Modric, who made his 200th international appearance. At full time, he was lifted by his teammates in celebration of his achievement.

“Today, at 40 years of age, he played excellent,” Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic said. “He was leading the national team to the victory. He will go into history as the best Croatia player of all time.”

Toronto Stadium was filled with color on a windy evening by Lake Ontario, with fans from both nations creating a vibrant atmosphere. Croatia supporters were particularly vocal, singing “Moja domovina” before kickoff to set the tone for a spirited contest.

The match was physically intense in midfield, with both sides competing strongly for control. Panama created several dangerous moments in the first half, using pace on the wings through Jose Luis Rodriguez and Amir Murillo, though their crosses failed to find a finishing touch.

“We need to improve our game and be a lot better, especially in defense,” Dalic said, adding that he substituted defender Josko Gvardiol at halftime. “We were not at the level we wanted against England, and today we gave Panama too many opportunities.”

Despite the loss, Panama remained competitive throughout the match and nearly equalized in the 68th minute when Carlos Harvey’s header was tipped over the bar by Livakovic.

“I think we had a good game but got very little from it,” Panama coach Thomas Christiansen said. He acknowledged that small mistakes proved costly at this level.

Panama, who have now been eliminated, will look to secure their first World Cup victory when they face England in their final group match. Croatia will meet Ghana in their concluding group fixture, with both teams still in contention for advancement. -Reporting by Nicoele Fernandes and Frank Pingue in Toronto, Editing by Ken Ferris/Reuters