Panama eliminated after Budimir goal sinks World Cup hopes
Panama are out
Croatia 1–0 Panama, and your World Cup is over. Ante Budimir scored the only goal Tuesday in Toronto, and Dalic admitted afterwards he expected an easier night: "I didn't expect that it was going to be such a difficult match, to be quite honest" (1) (2). Five straight World Cup defeats now. That stings.
Christiansen's side pushed them
Thomas Christiansen got a performance that worried Croatia more than anyone predicted. Dalic expected a straightforward win. He did not get one. The goal came, but Panama made them earn every minute (2).
Ghana hold England, group turns upside down
Ghana 0–0 England on the same day, and Carlos Queiroz was unapologetic about the approach: defend first, attack when you can (3). Ghana join Spain, Argentina and Mexico as the only teams yet to concede at this World Cup (3). They beat you 1–0 in the opener. Now they have four points and a real shot at the knockouts.
Fan reactions
Panama supporters are holding their heads high despite the early exit. Most of the buzz online is about Croatia's side of the match, particularly Martin Baturina completing all six of his dribbles. A stat line for the history books. See the discussion here.
Sources
- 1. kicker.de — Mehr Schwächen als Stärken: Zeigt Kroatien noch sein "wahres" Gesicht?
- 2. soccernews.com — Dalic surprised by Croatia’s struggles in narrow win over Panama
- 3. ge.globo.com — Gana iguala marca de Espanha, Argentina e México na Copa do Mundo