Panama vs Croatia – Prediction, where to watch, kick-off time and line-ups 24-06

Panama vs Croatia meet in the second round of the 2026 World Cup group stage. The match takes place this Wednesday at Midnight (12 AM) (BST) at BMO Field in Toronto.

Both nations will be desperate for a result after losing their opening matches. Panama suffered a heartbreaking late defeat against Ghana, while Croatia were beaten by England. This makes the upcoming game a must-win for both if they want to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Find out where to watch the match and what our experts are predicting, as well as the probable line-ups expected for today"s encounter.

Prediction

Croatia to win

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6.50

Panama vs. Croatia - Head-to-head record

This World Cup group stage match marks a historic first. Panama and Croatia have never faced each other in an official international match. With no past meetings, both teams in this Panama vs. Croatia fixture will be heading into uncharted territory. Everything will depend on which team adapts better to the opponent’s style of play on the day.

Panama - Seeking a historic result

Panama’s World Cup campaign started with a heartbreaking late defeat against Ghana, a match where they were seconds away from their first-ever point in the tournament. Here, we will take a closer look at their current form and tactical approach for this crucial second game. We will also analyse the expected Panama vs. Croatia line-ups.

Recent form

Panama enters their second World Cup match following a harsh 1-0 defeat to Ghana. A 95th-minute goal denied them a historic first point in the tournament. Their pre-competition form was inconsistent, with results like a 6-2 loss to Brazil and a 1-1 draw against Bosnia & Herzegovina in international friendlies.

Despite the opening loss, Panama demonstrated a competitive spirit against Ghana. They maintained defensive organisation for significant periods and generated several scoring opportunities. Striker Cecilio Waterman’s early shot, which the keeper tipped over, highlighted their potential threat.

Carrasquilla is the only injured player in this team. The team will be immensely motivated to secure their first World Cup point, giving their all on the pitch.

Results of the last five matches

Probable line-up for Panama

Mosquera; Blackman, Córdoba, Ramos, Murillo, Andrade; Rodríguez, Martínez, Bárcenas, Harvey; Waterman.

Manager: Thomas Christiansen.

Croatia - Under pressure after defeat

Let’s look at Croatia’s current situation. We will analyse the team’s momentum, recent results, and standout performers ahead of this crucial World Cup fixture.

Recent form

Croatia started their World Cup 2026 journey with a disappointing 4-2 loss to England, immediately putting them under significant pressure for the next match. Their international friendly form before the tournament was inconsistent, featuring a 2-1 victory against Slovenia but also defeats to Belgium and Brazil.

Despite the opening defeat, the Croatian attack displayed its quality by scoring two goals, courtesy of Baturina and Musa. The team’s creative prowess was also evident, as both Perišić and P. Sučić each provided an assist in that game. Overall, Croatia boasts a solid record, having won 12 of their last 21 matches across all competitions.

A significant advantage for Croatia is the absence of any injured or suspended players, giving the manager a complete squad to choose from. They will be keen to improve their defence after conceding four goals in their first outing. A highly motivated Croatian team is expected to dominate possession and seek a vital win to maintain their tournament aspirations.

Results of the last five matches

Probable line-up for Croatia

Livaković; Gvardiol, Caleta-Car, Šutalo, Stanišić; Perišić, Baturina, Sučić, Pašalić, Modrić; Budimir.

Manager: Zlatko Dalić.

Panama vs. Croatia - Stats

• Panama have won 1o of their last 21 matches across all competitions.
• Croatia hold a stronger recent record, winning 12 of their last 21 games.
• Panama’s last ten fixtures have been high-scoring, averaging 3.3 total goals per match.
• The Croatian attack has been in good form, finding the back of the net in eight of their last ten outings.
• Four different Croatia players were involved in their two goals against England: Baturina and Musa scored, while Perišić and P. Sučić provided assists.

Predictions for Panama vs. Croatia - Croatia favoured to win

Croatia are eager to bounce back after their opening loss and have the attacking quality to control the game. With both teams needing a victory, we could see a decisive result with over 2.5 goals.

Panama showed spirit against Ghana but face a much tougher opponent here. We expect Croatia to impose their superior quality early, potentially leading the match at half-time to secure a comfortable position.

Considering their superior experience and offensive firepower demonstrated even in defeat, Croatia are the clear favourites. Therefore, our main prediction is for a Croatia win as they look to get their World Cup campaign back on track.

The odds mentioned were collected at the time of writing this prediction and are subject to change. Always check the bookmaker"s site for up-to-date information.

Best markets to bet on Panama vs. Croatia

Discover more recommended bets on Panama vs. Croatia for what is a must-win game for both nations.

🔥 Double Chance: Panama or Croatia - 1.23 at BetMGM

Given that both teams desperately need a victory to keep their World Cup hopes alive, a draw seems an unlikely result. This makes backing either side to win a solid choice.

🔥 Total Goals - Half Time: Over 0.5 - 1.38 at BetMGM

Croatia"s attacking quality and their need to secure an early advantage suggest a high probability of at least one goal in the first half as they look to control the game.

Where to watch Panama vs. Croatia?

For those wondering where to watch Panama vs. Croatia, here is the broadcast information for the match.

• TV: BBC One (GBR), BBC Sport (GBR), BBC RED Button (Gbr)
• Streaming: BBC Sport app (GBR), BBC iPlayer (GBR), BBC Radio 5 Live (GBR)

Panama vs. Croatia - Match details

Check out the match details:

• Match: Panama vs. Croatia
• Competition: World Cup 2026
• Date: 24/06/2026
• Kick-off: Midnight (12 AM) (BST)
• Venue: BMO Field, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Broadcast: BBC Sport (GBR), BBC Sport app (GBR), BBC iPlayer (GBR), BBC One (GBR), BBC Radio 5 Live (GBR), BBC RED Button (GBR)

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