Panama 0:1 Croatia — Match Report

Gary RedknappFootball AnalystMATCH REPORT

Ante Budimir's 54th-minute header proved decisive as Croatia edged past Panama 1-0 in their World Cup opener, the veteran forward turning in Josip Stanišić's cross to settle a cagey affair and set up a meeting with Portugal in the next round. Neither side could find any rhythm in a forgettable first half, with both defences well organised and clear chances at a premium.

The match burst into life nine minutes after the restart when Stanišić's overlapping run and pinpoint delivery found Budimir unmarked at the back post, the striker nodding past the helpless Panama goalkeeper. Panama's response was limited to a yellow card for Yoel Bárcenas as frustration set in, while Petar Sucic was booked late on for Croatia in a stop-start contest that never really flowed.

Panama will feel they deserved at least a point from a first half they largely controlled, but Croatia grew into the game after the break and took their one clear opportunity. CheckLive's model rated Croatia marginally ahead before kick-off and the result confirmed that slender advantage, with a live bet on the favourites coming in at 1.15 as the pattern of play shifted in the second period. Croatia now face Portugal on 2 July.

Questions & Answers

What was the final score of Panama vs Croatia?

Panama 0-1 Croatia (World Cup).

Who scored?

Ante Budimir (54', assist Josip Stanišić) for Croatia.

Was Croatia's win deserved?

It was close — an evenly matched game.

Were there any cards in Panama vs Croatia?

Yellow cards: Yoel Bárcenas (Panama); Petar Sucic (Croatia).

First half0 - 0

Second half0 - 1