Pakistan, June 24 -- Croatia secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Panama in the FIFA World Cup 2026, keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive in a tightly contested Group L campaign.

The match, played in Toronto, saw both teams struggle to create clear-cut chances during the opening 45 minutes. Despite several attacking moves from both sides, the first half ended goalless as neither team managed to break the deadlock.

Croatia returned from the break with greater intensity and found the breakthrough in the 54th minute. Forward Ante Budimir scored the decisive goal, giving his side a lead that ultimately proved enough to secure all three points. Panama attempted to respond and pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Cr...