Ivan Perišić appears as a key player 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 veteran striker, with extensive experience in World Cups, needs to shine to help the team recover from its debut defeat and keep its hopes of qualifying alive.
Croatia lost 4-2 to England and is experiencing a moment of urgency. Perišić, who plays on the wings or as a reference man, should gain freedom with Zlatko Dalić’s tactical adjustments. His speed, heading and finishing ability are fundamental weapons against a Panamanian defense that suffered in the first round.
Panama came into the clash after a 1-0 defeat to Ghana. Without Adalberto Carrasquilla, injured, Thomas Christiansen’s team will have difficulty containing the attacks of Perišić and company. The Central American team showed determination, but needs to improve a lot in the offensive sector to surprise.
Perišić and the pressure for immediate results
Bookmakers place Croatia as favorites, with odds close to 1.55. A good performance from Perišić could earn the three points and improve the goal difference, a decisive factor in Group L, where England and Ghana already have three points each. For Panama, another stumble practically eliminates the chances of advancing.
Perišić, with a history of important goals in World Cups, represents the experience that Croatia needs to overcome the delicate moment. His interaction with Modrić and Kovačić in the middle can create the main dangerous plays.
Highlights and likely lineups
The pitch at BMO Field favors quick transitions, an ideal terrain for Perišić’s style.
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.
Perišić appears among the most influential players on the Croatian side, alongside Luka Modrić. In Panama, Aníbal Andrade is the main name to try counterattacks.
Gabonese Pierre Ghislain Atcho referees the match, which starts at 8pm (Brasília time) and will be broadcast on Betano.