Croatia recovered from a 0-1 loss to England with a 1-0 win over Panama in Toronto, securing three points in Group L. Substitute Ante Budimir entered at halftime and, nine minutes later, volleyed home Josip Stanisic’s curling cross from the back post. Goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic kept a clean sheet, denying Panama’s early chances. The result also restores confidence ahead of their second group match.

Zlatko Dalic’s double substitution at the break brought on Petar Musa and Josko Gvardiol alongside Budimir and Andre Kramaric, tightening the midfield and creating space for Mario Pasalic’s wing play. Stanisic and Pasalic combined on the flank, delivering the decisive ball that found Budimir unmarked. Panama’s only real threat came from a late Harvey strike saved by Livakovic. Panama’s defense held firm for most of the first half, limiting Croatia’s early pressure.

The win puts Croatia level on points with England and Ghana, leaving all three teams vying for the top two spots that guarantee progression to the knockout round. Panama, already eliminated, now faces England for pride on Saturday. Group L dynamics sharpen as goal difference becomes the tiebreaker, making every future goal critical for Croatia’s campaign. Should Croatia win their next game, they will finish top of the group, securing a favorable knockout path.