Panama fan predicts 2-2 draw against Croatia, calls Modrić 'the greatest'
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A Panamanian fan, Alfredo, met by a reporter in Toronto, expressed optimism about his team's chances against Croatia in their upcoming World Cup match.
- Alfredo predicted a 2-2 draw, acknowledging Croatia's quality but emphasizing that "in football, you never know."
- His son identified Luka Modrić as Croatia's biggest threat, while the article notes the crucial nature of the match for Croatia after an opening loss.
Toronto, Amidst the anticipation for their World Cup clash, a Panamanian fan named Alfredo shared his optimistic outlook on his team's chances against Croatia. Met by a reporter near Niagara Falls, Alfredo expressed confidence in Panama's progress, despite acknowledging the team's underdog status.
We have progressed a lot. We are a small country, so we have high expectations for this match and the whole tournament. We are aware of our capabilities.
"We have progressed a lot. We are a small country, so we have high expectations for this match and the whole tournament. We are aware of our capabilities," Alfredo told Večernji List. While respecting Croatia's reputation, he believes a draw or even a win is possible. "Can we achieve a draw or a victory? There is a good chance, although I know it is more likely that Croatia will win. But, in football, you never know."
Can we achieve a draw or a victory? There is a good chance, although I know it is more likely that Croatia will win. But, in football, you never know.
Alfredo's son identified Croatian captain Luka Modrić as the primary threat to Panama's defense. The fan himself, however, predicted a final score of 2-2, suggesting a belief in Panama's ability to compete.
Modrić is the greatest.
For Croatia, the match on June 23rd in Toronto carries significant weight. Following an opening 4-2 defeat to England, Zlatko Dalić's team desperately needs a victory to keep their hopes of advancing from Group L alive. Panama also suffered a painful 1-0 loss to Ghana in their first game, making this encounter a critical fixture for both nations.
It will end 2-2!
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.