Panama

Panama — Los Canaleros — are drawn into Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Ghana. This is Panama's second World Cup appearance after their historic debut in 2018, and the group is a significant challenge.

England and Croatia are both World Cup finalists (or recent semifinalists). Ghana are experienced African opposition. Panama are the underdogs in every match, but CONCACAF teams have a history of competitive performances at World Cups.

Why this group matters: Panama's 2018 debut was a celebration — the entire country stopped to watch. The results were painful (losses to Belgium, England, and Tunisia), but the experience was unforgettable. In 2026, Panama want to show they have learned from 2018 and can be competitive.

Ghana on Matchday 1 is the most competitive fixture to open the group. Croatia on Matchday 2 is the toughest follow-up. England on Matchday 3 at MetLife closes the group.

Panama have appeared in 1 FIFA World Cup:

• 2018 (Russia): Panama's debut was joyful and humbling. They lost all three matches — 3-0 to Belgium, 6-1 to England, and 2-1 to Tunisia. But Felipe Baloy's goal against England (Panama's first-ever World Cup goal) triggered celebrations that rivaled any winning team's. The crowd in the stadium and across Panama erupted as though they had won the tournament.
• Qualification moment: Panama qualified for 2018 by beating Costa Rica in the final CONCACAF qualifying match. The goal that sent them through was scored in the 88th minute, and the celebration in Panama City was one of the most emotional qualifying moments in football history.
• Gold Cup success: Panama have been a competitive force in CONCACAF, reaching multiple Gold Cup finals.

Panama's manager deploys a disciplined 5-4-1 or 4-5-1 that prioritizes defensive organization and set-piece danger. Against the quality of Group L opponents, survival is the priority.

• Deep defensive block against England and Croatia
• Counter-attacks through long balls and Blackman's pace
• Set pieces as the primary attacking weapon — Panama are dangerous from dead balls
• Physical commitment — Panama fight for every ball
• Emotional intensity fueled by national pride

Against Ghana, expect Panama to be more balanced, pressing higher and looking to control more of the ball.

Panamanian football culture exploded during the 2018 World Cup qualification and continues to grow.

• La Marea Roja: Panama's "Red Tide" supporters create a passionate, colorful atmosphere. The red shirts are unmistakable.
• 2018 national celebration: When Panama qualified for the 2018 World Cup, the government declared a national holiday. Schools and businesses closed. The entire country celebrated for days.
• Canal Zone identity: Panama's identity as the crossroads of the Americas (home to the Panama Canal) gives the national team a unique significance — football connects the nation to the global community.
• Diaspora in the US: Panamanian communities in New York, Miami, and other East Coast cities will provide support at MetLife Stadium.

Why to watch if you are a casual fan: Panama's joy at simply being at the World Cup is infectious. Felipe Baloy's goal against England in 2018 — and the tearful celebration that followed — was one of the most human moments in World Cup history. In a tournament dominated by pressure and expectations, Panama remind us that football can also be pure, uncomplicated happiness.

The group is the toughest possible draw. England, Croatia, and Ghana are all significantly stronger.

Prediction: Group stage exit. Panama will compete with pride but are likely to finish fourth in the group. The Ghana match on Matchday 1 is the best chance for a result. Scoring goals against England and Croatia would be achievements in themselves. Regardless of results, Panama's fans will celebrate every moment.