Croatia's tournament experience is unmatched — finalists in 2018, 3rd place in 2022. Even with an aging squad, their technical quality and big-game mentality make them clear favorites. Panama are limited.

Team Form

Croatia: 2018 finalists, 2022 3rd place. Modrić's swan song. Panama: WC debut in 2018, limited squad.

Head-to-Head

No significant meetings. Croatia vastly superior on paper.

Key Insights

Croatia's midfield mastery (even with aging Modrić) will control proceedings. Panama will defend deep but Croatia will find a way through. Experience wins.