Modric Marks 200th Croatia Appearance With World Cup Win Over Panama

Croatia kept their hopes of reaching the World Cup last 32 alive after a 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto on Tuesday.

Substitute Ante Budimir scored the only goal of the match nine minutes into the second half, calmly finishing from Josip Stanisic’s low cross.

The win gave Croatia their first points in Group L and means they can secure a place in the knockout stage with victory over Ghana on Saturday.

The match was also a special occasion for Croatia captain Luka Modrić, who made his 200th international appearance. The 40-year-old midfielder helped control the game before being substituted late on.

Panama pushed for an equaliser, but Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livaković made several important saves to protect his side’s lead.

Croatia will now face Ghana in a decisive final group match, while Panama take on England.