Luka Modrić takes the lead 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. At 40 years old, the Croatian maestro is experiencing possibly his last World Cup and is tasked with putting the team back on the path to victory after the tough defeat in their debut.
Croatia lost 4-2 to England and need to react immediately. Modrić, who remains a technical and emotional reference, should command the midfield alongside Mateo Kovačić. Coach Zlatko Dalić indicated tactical adjustments, with greater emphasis on protecting the defense, so that the veteran has the freedom to create.
Panama comes into the clash after a 1-0 defeat to Ghana. Despite having competed well, Thomas Christiansen’s team is missing Adalberto Carrasquilla, still recovering from a muscle injury. Without their main articulator, the Central Americans will have even more difficulty containing Modrić’s talent.
Modrić and the pressure for results
With odds of approximately 1.55 for a Croatian victory, favoritism is clear. Modrić has already proven his ability to decide big games in past World Cups. An inspired performance from him could not only give Croatia the three points, but also improve the goal difference, essential in breaking the tie in the group that has England and Ghana with three points each.
For Panama, another setback practically seals their early elimination, with only the game against England remaining. Coach Christiansen is betting on collective determination to neutralize Modrić’s moves, but the difference in experience in World Cups is evident.
Highlights and likely lineups
BMO Field, with its pitch in good condition, should allow Modrić’s refined touch. The 40-year-old midfielder leads the national team’s creation statistics and appears as the most influential player on the Croatian side.
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.
In addition to Modrić, names like Perišić and Budimir have the potential to take advantage of the spaces created by the captain. On the Panamanian side, Aníbal Andrade emerges as the main threat in quick transitions.
Referee Pierre Ghislain Atcho whistles the match, scheduled for 8pm (Brasília time), broadcast on Betano and other platforms.