Croatia kept their FIFA World Cup knockout-stage hopes alive with a 1-0 win over Panama in Toronto, earning their first points in Group L.
Substitute Ante Budimir scored the only goal nine minutes into the second half, finishing Josip Stanisic’s low cross at the far post.
Panama had caused problems in a dull first half, but Croatia improved after two attacking changes at the break. The result ended Panama’s hopes of progressing after a second straight defeat.
The win also marked Luka Modric’s 200th international appearance. The 40-year-old, playing in his fifth World Cup, was substituted in the 81st minute after completing 88 percent of his passes.
Croatia can secure a place in the last 32 with a win over Ghana on Saturday.
