Panama Shortens Workday, Suspends Classes for Crucial World Cup Match Against Croatia

Panama's government has implemented measures to ensure citizens can rally behind their national football team during a pivotal World Cup match against Croatia. President José Raúl Mulino and Minister Dinoska Montalvo signed a decree shortening the workday for state and local institutions. Employees in public offices will be allowed to leave work at 2 p.m. local time to watch the critical Group L game.

The government stated that the aim of this decision is to enable public servants to support the national team in what is considered one of the most important matches in its history. This is not the first time such a measure has been taken; a similar decision was made for Panama's opening match against Ghana, which they lost 1-0 due to a late goal.

In parallel, the Panamanian Ministry of Education announced the cancellation of afternoon and evening classes for all state and private schools, including adult education programs. Morning classes will proceed as scheduled. This nationwide effort underscores the significance of the match for the country, which is participating in its second World Cup, having debuted in 2018.

The game against Croatia is particularly crucial as both teams are seeking their first points after opening-round losses. Panama lost to Ghana, while Croatia was defeated by England. The match in Toronto is seen as decisive for both nations' chances of advancing to the knockout stage. The atmosphere in Panama is described as a "World Cup fever," with citizens displaying national flags and wearing the team's red jerseys, known as 'Los Canaleros'.

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The goal of the measure is to allow public officials to support the national team in one of the most important matches in its history.