World Cup 2026: Ghana opponents Panama eliminated

Panama’s 2026 World Cup campaign has come to an early end after a 1-0 defeat to Croatia confirmed their elimination from Group L, handing Ghana one fewer rival in the race for a place in the knockout stages.

The Central Americans, who will face England in their final group match, have now lost both of their opening fixtures after previously suffering a narrow defeat to Ghana. Their latest setback in Toronto leaves them with no mathematical chance of progressing to the last 32.

Croatia revived their qualification hopes thanks to substitute Ante Budimir, whose goal early in the second half secured the vital win.

The Osasuna forward made an immediate impact after being introduced at the break, calmly converting Josip Stanisic’s low cross at the far post.

The result leaves Croatia firmly in contention for qualification ahead of a decisive final-round clash against Ghana. Victory over the Black Stars on Saturday would guarantee the 2018 World Cup runners-up a place in the knockout phase.

Panama threatened throughout and caused Croatia problems with their pace in attack, particularly during a lively first half.

They also came close to finding an equaliser after the interval but were repeatedly denied by goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, who produced a string of important saves to preserve Croatia’s lead.

The victory was also a memorable occasion for Croatia captain Luka Modric, who celebrated his 200th international appearance with a win.

The 40-year-old midfielder, playing at his fifth World Cup, once again demonstrated his influence in midfield before being substituted late in the match.

With Panama now out, attention in Group L turns to the final round of fixtures, where Ghana’s encounter with Croatia could have major implications for qualification, while England prepare to take on an already-eliminated Panama side.