Croatia beats Panama 1-0 to keep knockout hopes alive
Croatia secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama thanks to Ante Budimir's goal, keeping their chances of advancing to the World Cup knockout stage alive.
In the first half, Croatia dominated possession (64% to 36%) but failed to create clear chances. They managed only two shots on target in 45 minutes, none of which reached the goal frame, and earned just one corner kick.
Substitutions at halftime changed the game. In the 54th minute, Josip Stanišić delivered a precise cross from the right flank. Panama's goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera attempted to intercept but missed, allowing Ante Budimir to score into an empty net.
Shortly after, Marco Pašalić went on a counterattack and came close to doubling the lead but was denied by the Panamanian defense. Panama pushed for an equalizer. In the 68th minute, Michael Murillo tested Croatia's goalkeeper Dominik Livaković with a shot; Livaković failed to hold the ball, but Panama could not capitalize on the rebound.
With this loss, Panama is eliminated from the World Cup and will finish last in Group L. Croatia now faces Ghana in their final group match for a direct spot in the knockout stage.
