FIFA World Cup 2026: Croatia stays alive for World Cup knockout round, eliminates Panama with 1-0 win

Updated On: 24 June, 2026 07:00 AM IST | Toronto | AP | PTI

Croatia remains in contention for the knockout round ahead of its third and final group-stage match against Ghana on Saturday. Panama was eliminated and is still seeking its first World Cup point in two appearances.

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Croatia's forward Ante Budimir celebrates with teammates scoring his team's first goal during the 2026 World Cup Group L football match between Panama and Croatia at the Toronto Stadium in Toronto. Pic/AFP

Josip Stanisic lifted a curving cross onto the boot of Ante Budimir, who tapped it into an open net in the 54th minute Tuesday, giving Croatia a 1-0 win over Panama in the World Cup.

Croatia remains in contention for the knockout round ahead of its third and final group-stage match against Ghana on Saturday. Panama was eliminated and is still seeking its first World Cup point in two appearances.