Croatia’s Modric Set for Historic 200th Cap in Crucial World Cup Clash Against Panama

Luka Modric will make his 200th appearance for Croatia on Tuesday when his team faces Panama in a pivotal Group B match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Toronto. The milestone comes under immense pressure, as Croatia must win to revive their tournament hopes after a 4-2 defeat to England in their opener. Panama, ranked 40th in the world, is also desperate for points after losing 1-0 to Ghana.

Modric, 40, remains the heartbeat of a Croatian side undergoing a generational transition under coach Zlatko Dalić. While young talents like Petar Sučić and Martin Baturina are taking on greater responsibility, Modric’s experience and ability to control the tempo are seen as vital against a disciplined Panama defense. Croatia, ranked 15th, is the second-highest ranked team in the group but dropped four places after their opening loss.

“An incredible number, I don’t know what to say about Luka — an amazing story. Thank you, captain, for showing us the way,” said forward Andrej Kramarić, who came off the bench against England. “We want to finish in the top two of the group because later it can get complicated.”

Panama coach Thomas Christiansen lamented the absence of injured midfielder Adalberto “Coco” Carrasquilla but expressed confidence in his squad. “We have shown the group is ready to compete and that everyone can contribute what is needed in a World Cup,” he said. Panama’s defensive organization frustrated Ghana until a late goal, and they will look to stifle Croatia’s possession-based style.

Croatia will rely on Modric’s leadership to break down a compact Panama defense. “It will be a different game — Panama has a distinct style, and we’ll probably have much more possession and chances to create opportunities,” said midfielder Sučić. “It depends on us; we have to enter more aggressively, especially in attack.”

The match kicks off at 20:00 Brasília time at BMO Field, with both teams needing a victory to keep their knockout-stage ambitions alive.