Croatia head into a pivotal FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L encounter against Panama knowing that anything less than victory could leave their knockout-stage hopes hanging by a thread.
The Croatians suffered a difficult start to their campaign after falling to a 4-2 defeat against England on June 17. While facing one of the tournament favourites was always expected to be a stern test, concerns emerged over Croatia’s physicality and inability to cope with sustained pressure.
Panama also opened their campaign with defeat, losing 1-0 to Ghana in heartbreaking fashion. The Central Americans produced a disciplined defensive display for most of the contest and looked on course for a valuable point before conceding a dramatic stoppage-time winner.
Despite sitting above Croatia in the Group L standings on goal difference, Panama are equally desperate for points. A second consecutive defeat would place enormous pressure on their final group fixture.
Team News
Panama midfielder Carlos Harvey must avoid a yellow card as he will otherwise miss out on his side’s third group match, as will wing-back Cesar Blackman.
Six of Croatia’s current squad were present at the 2018 World Cup, including veteran Luka Modric, and the 40-year-old is set to defy his age once again by starting another game for his country.
The AC Milan star may play in a midfield three – rather than in a double pivot ahead of three centre-backs – with Mateo Kovacic and Mario Pasalic possible inclusions next to Modric.
Possible Lineups
Panama possible starting lineup:
Mosquera; Ramos, Cordoba, Andrade; Murillo, Harvey, Barcenas, Blackman; Martinez, Waterman, Rodriguez
Croatia possible starting lineup:
Livakovic; Stanisic, Sutalo, Vuskovic, Gvardiol; Modric, Kovacic, Pasalic; Perisic, Musa, Kramaric
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV stream |
| Kick-off Time | 00:00 (WAT) |
Match Predictions
Softfootball predicts Panama 1-2 Croatia
Panama might prove to be more difficult to break down than some expect, but it is hard to go against the experience of the Croatians in this clash.
