World Cup

Panama

24 Jun 2026 00:00

Croatia

Prediction:

Away win 1.53

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Panama vs Croatia Predictions, Picks & Odds – 24/06/2026

World Cup · 2

Our prediction

2: Croatia to win

1.53 on Betfred · Confidence Medium

Odds recorded on 22 Jun 2026 at 04:26 · Odds are subject to change

Panama vs Croatia Preview

Panama's World Cup record makes for grim reading: six matches across two tournaments without a single victory or point. Their narrow 1-0 defeat to Ghana in the opener was cruel but familiar. Thomas Christiansen's side showed improved defensive organisation, yet lacked cutting edge in the final third. Midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla could return from a groin strain, though likely only as a substitute.

Croatia's 4-2 hammering by England was a sobering start for a side accustomed to deep World Cup runs. Coach Zlatko Dalic pulled no punches afterwards, declaring his players have no margin for further error. Tactical changes are expected, with a shift back to a more conventional formation and Mateo Kovacic likely restored to the starting eleven. Luka Modric is poised to earn his 200th cap, a landmark occasion carrying enormous pressure.

Croatia's opening 4-2 defeat to England exposed serious defensive frailties, yet Zlatko Dalic has vowed there is no room for further error. A tactical reshuffle is expected, with a return to a more conventional 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 shape. Mateo Kovacic should slot back into the starting eleven, adding midfield solidity, while Ante Budimir is likely to lead the line. These changes should bring greater balance to a side boasting two recent World Cup podium finishes.

Panama's narrow 1-0 loss to Ghana showed defensive organisation under Thomas Christiansen, but the Canaleros created little going forward. The possible return of Adalberto Carrasquilla to the bench offers a boost, though his match fitness remains uncertain. Croatia's squad, ranked 14th in the world compared to Panama's 40th, possesses far superior individual quality, particularly in midfield where Luka Modric is set to earn a landmark 200th cap.

The away win at 1.53 represents the strongest value selection in this fixture. Croatia's pedigree in knockout-pressure scenarios is well documented, and Dalic's personnel changes should address the defensive issues seen against England. Under 2.5 goals at 1.83 also merits consideration; Panama have scored just once across their entire World Cup history, and a tighter Croatian setup points towards a lower-scoring affair. Odds and markets subject to change.

Trends to Know about Panama vs Croatia

• Croatia ranked 26 places above Panama
• Panama winless in six World Cup matches
• Croatia boast two recent podium finishes

A compact 3-4-3 from Panama lines up against Croatia's more familiar 4-3-3, setting up a contest between Panamanian width and defensive solidity versus European technical quality. Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic give Croatia a commanding midfield axis, with the capacity to dictate tempo and exploit the spaces behind Panama's wing-backs.

For Panama, the 3-4-3 asks their front three to press high and deny Croatia time on the ball, while Cecilio Waterman offers a direct threat on the break. Both lineups carry probable status from multiple credible outlets, so the tactical picture here is reasonably settled ahead of kickoff.

How to Watch Panama vs Croatia Match?

What time is Panama vs Croatia?

Panama vs Croatia kicks off at Toronto Stadium on 24 June 2026 at midnight UK time.

Where is Panama vs Croatia being played?

This match takes place at Toronto Stadium in Toronto, Canada.

How Can I Watch Panama vs Croatia on TV and Live Stream?

Check local listings for broadcast details, as coverage varies by region. Odds and markets subject to change.