2026 FIFA World Cup — Group L, Matchday 2 | June 23 | Toronto Stadium, Toronto
TORONTO — Croatia’s 1-0 victory over Panama was a match won in midfield. Luka Modric, on his 200th appearance for his country, controlled the tempo from start to finish, completing 54 of 59 passes and dictating the rhythm of Croatia’s possession game.
Modric’s Deep-Lying Role
Modric operated as the deepest of Croatia’s three midfielders in a 4-3-3 shape, with Kovacic and Mario Pasalic ahead of him. From this position, he was able to receive the ball from the centre-backs and distribute to the flanks or find the advanced midfielders between the lines.
Panama’s 4-4-2 block was compact in the first half, denying Croatia space in central areas. Modric’s response was to vary the tempo — sometimes playing quick one-twos to accelerate the attack, sometimes slowing the game down to draw Panama out of their shape.
The Winning Goal
The breakthrough came from a tactical adjustment at half-time. Dalic replaced Musa with Budimir, adding a physical presence in the box. The goal in the 54th minute was a classic Croatia move — Modric switched play to Stanisic on the right, the full-back drove forward and crossed, and Budimir finished at the near post.
Group L Standings
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | England | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 2 | +2 | 4 |
| 2 | Ghana | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | +1 | 4 |
| 3 | Croatia | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 4 | -1 | 3 |
| 4 | Panama | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 | -2 | 0 |
Match Details:
- Panama 0-1 Croatia
- Venue: Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada
- Goal: Budimir 54′ (assist: Stanisic)
- Man of the Match: Luka Modric (Croatia)