Modrić Nears Historic 200th International Cap
If Luka Modrić takes the field today (and there is no indication he will not), he will become only the fourth male player to reach 200 international appearances. To date, 30 female players have achieved at least 200 international caps.
Here are the top international appearance leaders among men:
- Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal (230)*
- Bader Al-Mutawa, Kuwait (202)
- Lionel Messi, Argentina (201)*
- Luka Modrić, Croatia (199)*
- Soh Chin Ann, Malaysia (195)
*Asterisk denotes active players.
Historical Context and Team Profiles
Panama and Croatia have never previously met in a competitive match. Both national teams have significantly enhanced their reputations since the 2018 World Cup. Panama made their World Cup debut in 2018 after finishing above the United States in CONCACAF qualifying. Their inaugural tournament was marked by three losses and a goal difference of minus nine, reflecting a 'happy to be here' experience.
Conversely, Croatia reached the pinnacle of a golden generation with an inspired run to their first World Cup final in 2018, ultimately finishing as runners-up.
Both teams have maintained their status as contenders within their respective confederations. Panama continues to challenge regional powerhouses such as the United States and Mexico, joining Canada and Costa Rica among the usual CONCACAF contenders. Croatia experienced difficulties at Euro 2020 but rebounded to reach the World Cup semifinal in 2022, securing third place.
Squad Composition and Tactical Outlook
This summer’s squads lean heavily on veteran players. Panama’s youngest squad member is 24 years old. Croatia’s experienced core, including Luka Modrić, Ivan Perišić, and Andrej Kramarić, have retained their places over younger competitors to add another tournament to their extensive resumes.
Panama approaches the match without fear, no longer the tournament’s newest team. Their blend of tactical savvy and physicality enables them to challenge any opponent. However, conceding a late goal against Ghana has increased pressure on Panama to secure progression to the knockout stages against two UEFA qualifiers.
Croatia, having been unable to keep pace with England in their opening match, will be eager to respond following their defeat.
The match is set in Toronto with comfortable temperatures around 24ºC (75ºF) as evening approaches. An important Group L encounter awaits.
Team Insights Ahead of the Match
La Marea Roja arrives vocally confident. Following their historic 2018 World Cup debut, Panama aims to advance beyond the group stage this time. Key players include Michael Murillo, who leads from the back; midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla, providing creative impetus; and captain Aníbal Godoy, the team’s heart and soul. Panama is poised to write a new chapter in their football history.
Panama has shown improvement in possession and arrived in North America buoyed by recent successes, including reaching the quarter-finals of the 2024 Copa América and the final of the 2023 Gold Cup.
Croatia fields one of the oldest squads at this tournament, with roughly half or more of their starters in their 30s. Captain Luka Modrić is now 40 years old. This veteran presence brings extensive experience and a winning mentality but also raises questions about longevity.
Key questions include whether the veteran core—Modrić, Mateo Kovačić (32), Ivan Perišić (37), and Andrej Kramarić (turning 35)—can still perform at the highest level, and whether younger, less established players are ready to step up. Croatia has historically punched above its weight, and their achievements in the past two World Cups have set a very high standard. Nevertheless, the team appears determined to deliver one final strong performance.
