web counter
LEXO PA REKLAMA!

SHKARKO APP

App Store
Google Play

Budimir honors Croatia/Balkans have two paths to qualification

2026-06-24 09:44:00, Sport CNA

Budimir honors Croatia/Balkans have two paths to qualification

Croatia has restored its hopes of qualifying for the World Cup after a narrow 1-0 victory over Panama in Group L. A hard-fought match, with the Balkan team constantly looking for the advantage goal to keep their objective in this competition alive.

After a balanced and goalless first half, the breakthrough came after 56 minutes of play. The protagonist was veteran striker Ante Budimir. The 34-year-old from Osasuna in Spain made the most of a chance created in the area and sent the ball into the net, giving Croatia 3 golden points. After Budimir's goal, the Croatians carefully managed the advantage, while Panama tried to react, but could not find the way to the net.

The Balkan defense held strong until the final whistle, securing their first victory in the group. The success moves Croatia up to third place in the standings with 3 points, keeping them in contention for a place in the next stage of the tournament through a second place finish or as one of the third-best ranked teams. Group L is topped by England with 4 points, the same as second-placed Ghana. The small differences in the standings mean that everything remains open for the remaining matches.

On the other hand, the defeat to Croatia proves fatal for Panama. With zero points after two matches, the Central American team remains at the bottom of the table and ends its adventure in the 2026 World Cup./CNA





Lajmet e fundit nga