Croatian coach: 'Panama will be as good as we let them be'

Croatian national team coach Zlatko Dalic has asserted that Panama, their upcoming opponent, is a formidable team with skilled players. However, he stressed that Panama's effectiveness will ultimately be determined by how Croatia performs on the field.

Dalic instructed his team to "behave like the favorite that we are" and to play with courage. He acknowledged Panama's strength, noting they are ranked among the top thirty teams globally, have experienced few defeats, and have a history of competing in difficult matches. He described them as a "combative" side with strong individual players, a compact defense, and an ambitious approach.

"Without a doubt, they will be as good as we allow them to be," Dalic concluded. Following their 4-2 defeat against England, the Croatian squad is reportedly fully prepared and confident for the match against Panama, aiming to improve their performance.