Panama 0–1 Croatia: Budimir Strike Revives Croatian Hopes in Toronto

Croatia kept their World Cup hopes alive with a 1–0 victory over Panama at BMO Field in Toronto, Ante Budimir's second-half strike proving the difference in a tight, attritional contest.

The first half was a cagey affair, with chances at a premium and Panama defending in numbers against the more illustrious opposition.

Budimir Settles It

The breakthrough arrived on 54 minutes. Budimir got on the end of Josip Stanišić's delivery to finish from close range and settle Croatian nerves — a moment of quality that a patient, probing Croatia had been building towards.

Panama pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages but could not find a way past a Croatia side determined to protect their advantage and the three points that came with it.

Group L Picture

Victory lifts Croatia to three points and back into contention in Group L, where England and Ghana lead the way on four. Panama, beaten and still without a point, are left facing elimination heading into the final round.

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