Panama face Croatia in Toronto in a Group L match that pits CONCACAF’s returning qualifier against one of European football’s most experienced World Cup nations. The contrast in tournament history is significant. Croatia have contested a World Cup final, won matches in knockout rounds and consistently been ranked among Europe’s most dangerous tournament sides. Panama are in their second World Cup, still building what it means to belong at this level.

Croatia’s 2018 World Cup run in Russia was one of that tournament’s great stories. They defeated Argentina and England in knockout rounds before reaching the final, where France beat them 4-2. Luka Modric won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, a deserved recognition for a midfielder who transformed how the world understood the Croatian footballing identity. Their squad has evolved since, but the habits and confidence of a team that reached a final do not simply disappear.

Panama’s return to the World Cup after 2018 comes with valuable lessons absorbed. Their debut in Russia included a historic first World Cup goal from Felipe Baloy in a 6-1 defeat to England, a moment of pure joy within a difficult result. They understand now what it takes to compete at this level, what preparations are required, what mental demands the tournament makes.

Playing in Toronto gives Panama a North American context where CONCACAF culture feels more native. The travel and climate demands that traditionally disadvantaged Central American and Caribbean teams in European tournaments are absent here. Panama in Toronto is a different challenge for Croatia than Panama in Russia was.

BMO Field’s compact, intense atmosphere suits a match where Panama will need discipline and Croatia will need patience. Croatia will be expected to win. Panama will be motivated to prove that assumption wrong.