Head coach Thomas Christiansen has expressed confidence that Panama national football team can compete strongly against Ghana national football team and other top opponents at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Panama secured qualification for only the second World Cup in their history, earning a place in Group L of the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Christiansen, who is the country’s longest-serving national team coach, believes the Central American side has grown significantly in recent years and is now capable of competing with some of the world’s strongest teams. Panama have been drawn alongside England national football team, Croatia national football team and Ghana in what the coach describes as an “interesting” group.
“I’m trying to look at it as an ‘interesting’ group,” Christiansen said in an interview with FIFA. “Over the last five years, we’ve managed to hold our own against the big boys and we’re no longer outclassed by Canada, Mexico and the USA.”
The Spanish-Danish tactician noted that Panama’s improved performances against strong opposition have boosted the team’s belief heading into the global showpiece.
“We’ve admittedly not beaten Mexico during my tenure, but we’re capable of getting the better of all three of them. We’ve come out on top against the USA several times, and we’d like to replicate that success against Ghana, Croatia and England,” he said.
Christiansen added that his team is determined to compete aggressively rather than simply participate.
“We know they’re tricky customers, but we want to go toe-to-toe with them and put Panama on the map. We want our fans to feel proud of the team. Scoring a consolation goal should no longer be a reason for Panamanians to celebrate. It’s time for us to raise our level.”
Panama will open their World Cup campaign against Ghana before taking on Croatia and England in their remaining Group L matches.