Panama were beaten 0-1 by Croatia at BMO Field on June 24, 2026. Ante Budimir of Osasuna scored in the 54th minute, breaking the dead‑lock Panama had held for the first half. The win gave Croatia its three opening points and placed them third in Group L, one point behind England and Ghana.
Panama started the game with a gritty performance. Cristian Martínez kept testing the right flank, but Croatian defenders Domagoj Vida (mistimed a clearance) and Josko Gvardiol (mis‑positioned) stopped any clear chances. In the second half, coach Zlatko Dalić brought on Budimir and Marko Kramarić, adding firepower. A Stanisic cross, returned by Marco Pasalic, found Budimir, who nudged the ball home.
The defeat leaves Panama on zero points and no goals scored, forcing them to chase a win against Ghana and England. The team showed defensive resolve, yet offensive output remains lacking. Coach Thomas Christiansen will need to tweak the attack, perhaps giving more freedom to Alberto Quintero or Luis Tejada.
Before this match, Panama drew 1-1 with Honduras on June 28, 2025, and their last five‑game form was 3 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss (DWWWL, most recent first). That record indicates competitiveness, but the lack of points in the World Cup group stage threatens their tournament life.
The next challenge is Ghana on June 28, 2026, where Panama will need at least one goal to stay alive. A win would revive their hopes of progressing, while another loss would end their campaign. Pressure on Christiansen and his staff will rise, and fans will watch closely for any tactical shift that could spark the needed firepower.
