Croatia secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Panama on June 24, 2026, at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Ante Budimir scoring the only goal in the 55th minute. The win eliminated Panama from the tournament and ensured Croatia advanced to the knockout stage, marking a historic milestone for captain Luka Modric, who became the oldest Croatian player to appear in a World Cup match at age 40.
Budimir's goal came from a close-range finish after a cross from the right flank, beating Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera. Panama had several chances to equalize, including a shot from Alberto Quintero that hit the post in the 78th minute, but Croatia's defense held firm. The match was played at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, in front of 71,000 fans.
With this result, Croatia finished second in Group F with 5 points, behind group winners Brazil. Panama ended their World Cup campaign with 1 point from three matches, having drawn with Brazil earlier in the tournament. Modric, playing in his fifth World Cup, received a standing ovation from both sets of fans when he was substituted in the 89th minute.
