Budimir sinks Panama on Modric's 200th cap

Budimir wins it on Modric's 200th

Ante Budimir scored in the 54th minute and Croatia beat Panama 1–0 on Tuesday (1) (2) (3). Luka Modric earned his 200th cap, the fourth player in history to reach that mark. Your team held on, and Panama are out of the World Cup (2) (8).

It was nervy. Panama pushed hard and Croatia looked uncomfortable for stretches (4) (10). Josip Stanisic set up Budimir's winner, the substitute finishing the chance that mattered (7).

Dalic: Modric 'the best player of all time for Croatia'

Zlatko Dalic did not hold back. "With his 40 years he played an excellent 80 minutes, he led the team to victory and we must be really very happy to have Luka in the team. He will go down in history as the best player of all time for Croatia" (4).

Dalic added he was glad to dedicate the win to Modric on his landmark night (1) (4). The captain has now played in 10 major tournaments for Croatia.

Saturday in Philadelphia decides the group

Croatia face Ghana on Saturday in Philadelphia (4). A win and your team reach the last 16. Ghana also sit on three points, so it is winner-takes-all for the knockout stage spot (4).

The England defeat is behind you. One match, one shot.

Fan reactions

Croatia fans on Reddit marked two things after the final whistle: Modric being hoisted into the air by teammates, and the sheer relief of Budimir's winner. The landmark 200th cap thread drew attention to Modric joining an exclusive club, only the fourth player in men's international history to reach the milestone, with 10 major tournament appearances for Croatia. See the celebration.