Joško Gvardiol stands out this Tuesday (23) when Croatia faces Panama at BMO Field, in Toronto, in the second round of Group L of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The young defender, one of the best in the world in the position, leads the Croatian defensive recovery after the setback in his debut.
Croatia beat England 4-2 and need more consistency in defense. Gvardiol, with his speed, precise ball release and strength in the air, should be the pillar of the defensive system adjusted by Zlatko Dalić. His presence inspires confidence to contain the Panamanian attacks.
Panama lost 1-0 to Ghana and was without Adalberto Carrasquilla, still recovering from a muscle injury. Without the main articulator, the Central Americans will have difficulty creating chances against a defense led by Gvardiol.
Gvardiol and stitch urgency
With odds favorable to Croatia (around 1.55), the European team needs a convincing victory to improve the balance and continue in the fight for the top positions. England and Ghana lead the group with three points each. Gvardiol, who has already shone in previous World Cups, represents the solidity needed for the moment.
For Panama, another stumble makes classification almost impossible before the last game against England. The mission is to explore possible spaces, but the Croatian wall led by Gvardiol will be difficult to overcome.
Highlights and likely lineups
The pitch at BMO Field should allow Gvardiol to play his full game, with good ball release.
Panama (3-4-3):Mosquera; Blackman, Ramos, Córdoba; Murillo, Harvey, Martínez, Andrade; Bárcenas, Waterman, Rodríguez.
Croatia (4-2-3-1):Livaković; Stanišić, Šutalo, Pongračić, Gvardiol; Modrić, Kovačić; Baturina, Sučić, Perišić; Budimir.
Gvardiol is one of Croatia’s highlights for his defensive consistency. In Panama, Aníbal Andrade tries to be an alternative in quick transitions.
Referee Pierre Ghislain Atcho commands the match, which starts at 8pm (Brasília time), broadcast on Betano.