- Budimir’s Second-Half Strike Secures Vital Three Points in Toronto
WASHINGTON: Croatia earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama in their second Group L match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, boosting their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.
The decisive moment came in the 54th minute when striker Ante Budimir found the back of the net, giving Croatia a crucial win in front of fans at Toronto’s World Cup venue.
Croatia Revives Qualification Bid
After a challenging start to the tournament, Croatia’s victory keeps its Round of 32 hopes firmly alive. Budimir’s goal proved enough to separate the two sides in a tightly contested encounter, with Croatia successfully protecting its lead until the final whistle.
The result lifts Croatia to three points in Group L, placing them within striking distance of a place in the next round.
Group L Battle Intensifies
England currently tops Group L with four points, level with Ghana, while Croatia sits third with three points.
For Panama, the defeat marks the end of its World Cup campaign. Having suffered consecutive losses, the Central American side can no longer qualify for the knockout stages and remains at the bottom of the group without a point.
Group L Standings
- England – 4 points
- Ghana – 4 points
- Croatia – 3 points
- Panama – 0 points
- Decisive Final-Round Matches Await
The battle for qualification will be settled in the final round of Group L fixtures on June 28.
Panama will take on England, while Croatia faces Ghana in what promises to be a decisive showdown with a place in the knockout stage at stake.
Croatia will need another strong performance against Ghana to secure progression and continue its World Cup journey.
Historic FIFA World Cup Across North America
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
The tournament is being played across 16 cities in the three host nations and marks a historic milestone as the first FIFA World Cup to feature 48 teams, expanding from the previous 32-team format and creating a larger, more competitive global spectacle.
BY: The Times Union
