Substitute striker Ante Budimir scored the only goal of the match in the 54th minute, becoming the oldest Croatian player to score at a World Cup at 34 years and 336 days, surpassing Ivica Olić’s previous record set in 2014.

It was Croatia’s first win following their opening 4-2 defeat to England, moving them into third place on three points, one behind England and Ghana, who drew 0-0 in Boston. Panama exited the tournament without points after two consecutive defeats.

Croatia will face Ghana in their final group match in Philadelphia, while Panama will meet England in New Jersey/New York.