Head coach Thomas Christiansen has embraced the challenge awaiting the Panama national football team after they were drawn in a difficult group alongside the Ghana national football team, Croatia national football team, and England national football team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Panama will make only their second appearance at the global tournament after securing qualification for the competition, where they have been placed in Group L. The tournament will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Christiansen, the longest-serving manager in Panama’s history, acknowledged the strength of the opposition but expressed confidence that his team has developed the resilience and quality needed to compete with elite nations.
Speaking in an interview with FIFA, the Danish-Spanish tactician described the group as a fascinating challenge rather than an intimidating one.
“I’m trying to look at it as an interesting group,” Christiansen said. “Over the last five years we’ve managed to hold our own against strong teams and we’re no longer outclassed by sides like the Canada national football team, Mexico national football team, and the United States men’s national soccer team.”
While admitting that Panama have yet to defeat Mexico since he took charge, Christiansen believes his team has proven capable of competing with the region’s biggest sides.
“We’ve admittedly not beaten Mexico since I took charge, but we’re capable of getting the better of those teams. We’ve beaten the USA several times, and we’d like to replicate that success against Ghana, Croatia and England,” he added.
The Panama coach also stressed that his side wants to move beyond simply participating in the World Cup and instead aim to make a real impact on the tournament.
“We know they are tough opponents, but we want to go toe-to-toe with them and show what Panama football is about. 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 begin their World Cup campaign against the Ghana national football team before facing Croatia and England in their remaining Group L matches.
