Panamavs
Croatia
Group Stage · Wed, Jun 24, 2026 · 00:00 ET · Estadio Toronto, Toronto
Modrić's last stand in Houston's furnace
At 40, Luka Modrić will battle Houston's 3pm heat against a Panama side built for it. Croatia’s midfield metronome faces Aníbal Godoy’s disruptive pressing — the same tactic that stunned the US in 2018 qualifiers. NRG Stadium’s turf favors Panama’s direct transitions, but Modrić’s ability to slow the game could neutralize their advantage. Expect 25+ fouls: Panama committed the most per game (19.3) in 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Croatia's set-piece trap for Panama's giants
Josip Juranović’s delivery meets Panama’s vulnerability — they conceded 5 of 9 Gold Cup goals from dead balls. With 6'4" Joško Gvardiol attacking corners against 5'9" Panama fullback Eric Davis, Zlatko Dalić will target this mismatch. But Panama’s aerial threat is real: 6'3" José Fajardo scored 4 headers in 2025 qualifiers.
Group L's early third-place equation
With favorites Brazil looming, neither side can afford a loss here. Panama’s 2018 World Cup showed they’ll park the bus (31% avg. possession that tournament), while Croatia must avoid repeating their 2022 group-stage stumble against Morocco. A draw keeps both alive but complicates advancement — only 8 of 24 third-placed teams progress. Check the latest /world-cup-2026-standings permutations post-match.
Match details
- Competition: World Cup 2026
- Stage: Group Stage
- Venue: Estadio Toronto, Toronto
- Kickoff: Wed, Jun 24, 2026 · 00:00 ET
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Frequently asked questions
What time is Panama vs Croatia in ET?+
3pm ET on June 24, 2026 at NRG Stadium, Houston — the hottest part of the day (avg. 94°F in June).
Has Panama ever beaten Croatia?+
No. Their only meeting was a 3-0 Croatia win in 2006, with Darijo Srna scoring twice.
Who is Panama's key player?+
Midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla — the 2023 Gold Cup MVP who disrupts play and springs counters.
Will Modrić start for Croatia?+
Likely, but his minutes may be managed. Mateo Kovačić could share duties in Houston’s heat.
How many fans will attend?+
NRG Stadium holds 72,220 — expect 60,000+ with Houston’s large Central American diaspora.
What’s at stake for third place?+
The loser likely needs a final-game miracle — only 8 third-place teams advance. See /world-cup-2026-groups for scenarios.