Los Canaleros return to the World Cup under Christiansen with captain Godoy and an experienced CONCACAF core chasing a first World Cup win.
Panama reach their second World Cup after 2018's debut. The Canaleros qualify under Thomas Christiansen, who has been in charge since 2020 and led the team to the 2023 Gold Cup final. The squad combines MLS-based veterans with European-league rookies; Michael Amir Murillo and Adalberto Carrasquilla anchor the spine.
Panama found the group stage unforgiving, unable to pick up a single victory against their opponents. Their campaign featured a narrow 0-1 loss to Ghana, a narrow 0-1 loss to Croatia, and a 0-2 defeat against England. England proved to be a step too far, and Panama's campaign came to a decisive end in the the opening round.
3lost
0scored4conceded
Failed to score a single goal lost all 3 matches.
The standout performer for Panama at the 2026 World Cup.
5yellow
1.7per match
Christiansen is a former Danish international with Spanish coaching experience at Leeds United and Apoel Nicosia. His emphasis on organized defensive blocks has suited Panama's tactical profile. Winless under Christiansen leading Panama at his first World Cup.
