Mateo Kovačić takes on a central role 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 midfielder, known for his versatility, physical strength and precision in his passes, leads the Croatian recovery after the debut defeat.
Croatia lost 4-2 to England and need a solid midfield. Kovačić, alongside Luka Modrić, must dictate the pace, protect the defense and feed the attackers. Coach Zlatko Dalić indicated tactical changes to enhance the player’s technical quality, who shines in high-intensity games.
Panama is coming off a 1-0 defeat to Ghana and is missing Adalberto Carrasquilla, who is injured. Without its main organizer, the Central American team will have to work twice as hard to contain Kovačić’s dominance in midfield. Thomas Christiansen’s team is committed to determination, but the technical difference may weigh heavily.
Kovačić and the need for immediate reaction
Favorites in the odds (around 1.55 for victory), Croatia counts on Kovačić to control the game and create opportunities. A victory helps improve the goal difference and keeps the team alive in the fight for places, in a group where England and Ghana lead with three points.
For Panama, a new negative result practically ends their chances of qualifying, leaving the final clash against England. Neutralizing Kovačić will be a priority for the Panamanians.
Highlights and likely lineups
BMO Field should offer conditions for the possession game that Kovačić dominates.
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.
Kovačić appears as one of the most influential in Croatia, with a high volume of passes and tackles. In Panama, Aníbal Andrade tries to be the main driver in transitions.
Pierre Ghislain Atcho, from Gabon, is the referee. The ball rolls at 8pm (Brasília time), broadcast on Betano.