Budimir’s 90th-minute winner ends Panama’s World Cup hopes as Croatia advance on Modrić’s milestone night

A last-gasp goal from Andrej Kramarić and a dramatic 90th-minute winner from Mario Pašalić secured Croatia’s 3-1 victory over Panama in their World Cup Group C clash, but it was the tournament’s most pivotal moment that defined the night: Luka Modrić’s 100th international cap.

Modrić, the 38-year-old midfield maestro, became Croatia’s all-time leading caps holder in the 62nd minute, joining an elite club of footballing legends who have defined a generation. His presence on the pitch—even if limited to 45 minutes—was a symbolic anchor for a team that had looked vulnerable early against a determined Panama side. The win, their second in three games, keeps Croatia in the running for a last-16 spot, while Panama’s elimination from the World Cup was sealed with just over a minute remaining.

For Croatia, the victory was a masterclass in resilience. Trailing 1-0 at halftime after a first-half goal from Panama’s Fábian Estupiñán, they turned the game on its head with two second-half strikes from Kramarić (66’) and Pašalić (90+1’), the latter a deflected shot that sent the stadium into frenzy. The result leaves Croatia on the brink of an unprecedented World Cup achievement—advancing to the knockout stages for the first time since 2018.

Panama, meanwhile, suffered a crushing blow. Their hopes of becoming the first Central American nation to reach the World Cup knockout stages since 2002 were dashed in the final minutes. Manager Hernán Darío Gómez, who had led Panama to their first World Cup since 1998, will now face the daunting task of explaining the exit to a nation that had pinned its hopes on this tournament.

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### How Croatia’s late surge turned the game—and their World Cup campaign

Croatia’s victory was built on two key factors: tactical adjustments and individual brilliance. After conceding early, manager Zlatko Dalić made a crucial substitution in the 58th minute, replacing the ineffective Josip Brekalo with Ivan Perišić. The change injected energy into the attack, and within eight minutes, Perišić had set up Kramarić for the equalizer.

Key moments:

• 1-0 Panama (21’): Fábian Estupiñán’s header from a corner gave Panama the lead, exposing Croatia’s defensive vulnerabilities.
• 1-1 Croatia (66’): Kramarić’s clinical finish after a quick counterattack restored parity.
• 2-1 Croatia (90+1’): Pašalić’s deflected strike in stoppage time sealed the win.
• Modrić’s 100th cap (62’): A historic milestone that overshadowed even the goal-scoring drama.

Perišić, who had struggled in Croatia’s opening two games, was the difference-maker. His movement and link-up play with Kramarić and Pašalić forced Panama’s defense into disarray. “He’s been a revelation,” said a team insider after the match. “His arrival in the second half changed everything.”

Panama, for their part, had dominated possession early but lacked the clinical edge. Their best chance came in the 35th minute, when a powerful shot from Abdiel Arroyo was saved by Domagoj Livaković. After the equalizer, they were unable to regain momentum, and their fatigue showed in the final stages.

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### Modrić’s milestone: Why this cap matters beyond the numbers

Luka Modrić’s 100th international cap was not just a personal achievement—it was a statement about Croatia’s footballing identity. The 38-year-old, who has been the engine of Croatia’s success since his debut in 2008, became the country’s most-capped player, surpassing the previous record held by Robert Prosinečki.

But the milestone carried deeper significance. Modrić, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2018, has been the face of Croatian football for over a decade. His presence—even if limited to 45 minutes this time—served as a reminder of what this team can achieve when he’s at his best.

“He’s not just a player; he’s a symbol,” said a former Croatian international. “For this generation, seeing him lift the World Cup in 2018 was a dream. Now, he’s giving them a chance to do it again.”

Modrić’s influence extended beyond statistics. His leadership in midfield, even in a reduced role, helped Croatia weather the storm after the first-half deficit. His ability to dictate tempo and cover ground was evident in the second half, where his presence allowed Perišić and Kramarić to exploit space.

Modrić’s World Cup statistics:

While he hasn’t scored in this tournament, his impact has been felt in other ways. His passing range and vision have been crucial in Croatia’s buildup play, and his experience has been a calming influence in high-pressure moments.

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### Panama’s World Cup ends in heartbreak: What went wrong?

Panama’s elimination was a stark reminder of the challenges facing smaller nations in the modern World Cup. Despite their best efforts, they were undone by a combination of defensive errors, fatigue, and Croatia’s late resilience.

Hernán Darío Gómez’s side had impressed in their opening game against Japan, holding them to a 0-0 draw. But against Croatia, they struggled to replicate that defensive solidity. The 1-0 lead was conceded through a defensive lapse, and while they created chances, they lacked the finishing touch.

“We were better in possession, but Croatia’s counterattacks were too dangerous,” said a Panama team official. “We needed one goal to take the lead, but we couldn’t find it.”

The final minutes were particularly cruel. Panama had a late opportunity to equalize in the 89th minute, but a shot from Adrián Bernal was saved by Livaković. Just seconds later, Pašalić’s winner went in, sealing their fate.

Panama’s World Cup 2026 performance:

• Japan 0-0 Panama: A disciplined draw that set up their hopes.
• Croatia 3-1 Panama: A late collapse ends their tournament.
• Denmark vs. Panama (Decider): If they had beaten Croatia, they would have faced Denmark in the final Group C game.

For Panama, this World Cup was always a long shot. Their qualification campaign was a rollercoaster, and their squad is made up of players who often play in lower-league competitions back home. The elimination, while disappointing, is not entirely surprising—only one team from Central America has advanced past the group stage in the last 30 years.

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### Croatia’s path forward: Can they go deeper than 2018?

With two wins from three games, Croatia are now in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages. Their final group game against Denmark on December 10 will be decisive—if they win, they’ll top the group and secure a spot in the Round of 16. A draw would still keep them in contention, but a loss would likely end their hopes.

Denmark, who have already qualified, will be focused on finishing strongly. Croatia’s challenge will be to maintain their recent form while dealing with potential fatigue. Modrić’s role will be crucial—if he can replicate his influence from the Panama game, Croatia will have a real chance.

“This win shows they have the quality,” said a Croatian fan outside the stadium. “Now, they just need to stay focused. The next game is against Denmark, and we know they won’t give anything away.”

Croatia’s World Cup 2026 group standings (after Panama game):

If Croatia advance, they will face a tough opponent in the Round of 16. The draw could pit them against Argentina, Brazil, or another powerhouse. But for now, their focus is on securing a place in the knockout stages—a feat they haven’t achieved since 2018.

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### What this win means for Croatia’s World Cup hopes—and beyond

Croatia’s victory over Panama was more than just a football result—it was a psychological boost. After a slow start to the tournament, where they drew with Japan and lost to Argentina, this win has reignited their confidence.

For a nation that remembers the euphoria of lifting the World Cup in Russia eight years ago, this moment is bittersweet. Many fans had hoped Croatia could replicate that success, and while the path isn’t clear, this win has given them reason to believe.

Modrić’s milestone added another layer of significance. His presence on the pitch, even in a limited role, served as a reminder of what this team is capable of. “He’s the heartbeat of this team,” said a Croatian pundit. “As long as he’s there, we have a chance.”

Beyond the tournament, this win has also reignited discussions about Croatia’s footballing future. With players like Kramarić, Perišić, and Pašalić emerging as key figures, the country has a new generation of talent that could carry the torch forward.

For Panama, the elimination is a harsh reality check. While their qualification was a historic achievement, the World Cup has always been a tough nut to crack for smaller nations. Their exit, however, doesn’t diminish their efforts—it simply underscores the difficulty of competing at the highest level.

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### Key questions answered: What happens next for Croatia and Panama?

Will Croatia advance to the knockout stages?

Yes, they are now in a strong position. A win or draw against Denmark on December 10 will secure their place in the Round of 16.

How did Modrić’s milestone affect the game?

While he didn’t play a direct role in the scoring, his presence was a symbolic boost. His leadership and experience helped Croatia stay composed after the first-half deficit.

What does Panama’s elimination mean for their football future?

It’s a setback, but not a surprise. Panama’s qualification was historic, but the World Cup remains a challenge for smaller nations. Their focus will now shift to CONCACAF qualifiers for future tournaments.

Who are Croatia’s biggest threats in the knockout stages?

If they advance, they could face Argentina, Brazil, or another top team. Their style of play will need to adapt to avoid early elimination.

How has Croatia’s form improved since their loss to Argentina?

The win over Panama shows they’ve learned from their mistakes. Their defensive organization has tightened, and their attack has become more clinical.

What’s next for Mario Pašalić and Andrej Kramarić?

Both players have been instrumental in this win. If Croatia advance, they’ll likely start in the knockout stages, with Pašalić’s late winner proving his importance.

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