Budimir Off Bench to Sink Panama and Keep Croatia Alive

Ante Budimir walked off the bench at half-time and did what Croatia’s starters could not — break Panama’s stubborn resistance. The 34-year-old striker smashed in Josip Stanisic’s cross on 54 minutes to hand Croatia a vital 1-0 win in Toronto, eliminating Panama and breathing new life into the 2018 finalists’ campaign.

When Budimir prodded home from Stanisic’s pinpoint delivery, he became Croatia’s oldest World Cup goal scorer ever. It was the kind of clinical, no-nonsense finish that has defined his career — arriving late at the back post with defenders flat-footed. Croatia had struggled to break down Panama’s organised defensive block in the first half, but one moment of quality changed everything after the interval.

Panama are now eliminated with zero points from two games, their World Cup fairytale turning into harsh reality. Croatia move to three points and face England’s group rivals Ghana in their must-win final group match. Panama will face England in their last outing knowing only pride is on the line. Croatia, three-time World Cup medalists, know that anything less than a win against Ghana will end their tournament.

Budimir proved age is just a number with a goal that could prove priceless. Croatia have a history of rising at major tournaments when it matters most — with Ghana in their sights, don’t write them off just yet.