Both teams are under pressure to pick up points. Croatia’s opening defeat was not due to a lack of attacking threat, but rather to defensive coverage issues stemming from an aging squad. Their midfield passing and control remain strong, and Modrić’s ability to dictate the tempo is exactly what is needed to break down a compact defense.
Panama are not weak defensively, but after the absence of their key player, their midfield link-up has struggled, and prolonged spells of passive defending make it difficult for the back line to stay fully focused throughout. Overall, Croatia are more likely to take all three points, though the team tends to slow the game down and control possession after taking the lead.,客 - 1
