Croatia secured a crucial victory against a resilient Panama side at the Toronto stadium on Tuesday, in a match neither team could afford to lose following their initial defeats in the tournament.

The win, marked by a decisive second-half goal from substitute Ante Budimir, kept Croatia's hopes of reaching the Round of 32 alive.

"... so there we have started in this tournament and hope we draw the right lessons and continue to build on this victory," Budimir shared with reporters after the match.

Following their 4-2 loss to England in their World Cup opener, Croatia now sits third in Group L with three points, gearing up to face a determined Ghana side on Saturday in Philadelphia.

England leads the group with four points, ahead of Ghana on goal difference.

"I am thrilled to have scored my first goal at the World Cup; it is vital for us to start winning and to regain the form we had before," Budimir expressed.

Croatia's Luka Modric, who recently celebrated his 200th international appearance, was lifted in jubilation by his teammates post-match.

Budimir reflected on the joy of celebrating such milestones, especially when they come alongside a team victory.

"We are grateful to have a captain like Luka - a remarkable player and an even better person," Budimir added, emphasizing the importance of team spirit.