This article forms part of a collaborative initiative among leading media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified for the 2026 World Cup. In anticipation of the tournament commencing on June 11, previews from three countries will be featured daily.
Strategic Outlook
La Marea Roja, or the Red Tide, arrives with enthusiasm and determination. Following their groundbreaking debut in the 2018 World Cup, they are intent on advancing beyond the group stage this time. With Michael Murillo anchoring the defense, midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla adding creativity, and captain Aníbal Godoy serving as the team’s emotional core, Panama is set to embark on a new journey.
This squad exhibits greater maturity compared to the one from 2018. Under the guidance of coach Thomas Christiansen, the team has adopted a pragmatic playing style characterized by a solid defense, rapid transitions, and substantial physicality. Typically employing a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation, Murillo stands out as the pivotal right-back, although they might switch to a five-man defense against stronger teams. Godoy excels in reclaiming possession, while Carrasquilla is adept at transitioning the ball to attack. Speedy forwards Ismael Díaz and José Rodríguez pose additional threats in the offensive front.
Panama topped their Concacaf qualifying group, allowing only four goals during the final phase and earning their ticket to the finals with a decisive 3-0 victory over El Salvador last November. Their possession game has seen notable improvement, and they enter North America brimming with confidence, having reached the quarter-finals of the 2024 Copa América and the final of the 2023 Gold Cup.
Panama: Group K Schedule
17 June v Ghana, Toronto (7pm local, 18 June 12am BST, 18 June 9am AEST)
23 June v Croatia, Toronto (7pm local, 24 June 12am BST, 24 June 9am AEST)
27 June v England, New York/New Jersey (5pm local, 10pm BST, 28 June 7am AEST)
“Our faith moves mountains,” Christiansen stated. “To be at the World Cup for the second time, we want to improve on 2018 and compete like never before.” Godoy added, “We will give everything. This group is united and hungry to make history.”
The primary objective is to advance from the group stage. Christiansen aims to demonstrate the team’s discipline to avoid a repeat of the 6-1 loss to England in 2018, who are again in their group. A place in the Round of 16 is the ultimate aspiration, and the players believe it is achievable.
Coaching Leadership
Since taking the helm in 2020, Thomas Christiansen has molded Panama into a formidable side. The Danish coach began his playing career with Barcelona’s B team and enjoyed a successful coaching stint in Cyprus before managing Leeds and Union Saint-Gilloise. At 53, he has successfully guided the team to the Gold Cup final, the Copa América quarter-finals, and now their second World Cup appearance. “We want to compete and get out of the group. The selección is more than ready,” Christiansen expressed confidently. His squad is ready to face any opponent.
Key Player
Michael Murillo stands as Panama’s key figure. The 30-year-old right-back for Besiktas boasts over 90 international caps and has played in leagues across MLS, Belgium, France, and Turkey. His quickness, strong one-on-one skills, and attacking threat make him vital to the team’s success. A natural leader, Murillo’s experience in prominent leagues has established him as a captain without the armband. Growing up in Colón, he shared a modest living with his mother and siblings, and although baseball was the family’s passion, he chose football to uplift his family. Now a national icon, he remains rooted in his origins. “Be proud of your family, fight for your family and believe in your family,” he remarked.
Emerging Talent
José Rodríguez, who lost his father at just ten years old, has channeled his grief into a passion for football, fueled by the support of his family. The winger, known for his incredible speed, has made significant strides in leagues across Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and Serbia. He is not hesitant to shoot from distance, famously scoring with a deflection off Tunisia’s Yassine Meriah during the 2018 World Cup group stage. At 27, now playing in Mexico, he has found guidance in Thomas Christiansen. “I’m very grateful to ‘El Profe’ … we know each other very well and we’re like a family,” Rodríguez stated.
Team Backbone
With a record of over 150 caps, Aníbal Godoy is the most seasoned player in the current Panama squad. At 36, he remains a reliable force for Christiansen, excelling in ball recovery, covering ground, and coordinating his teammates. The midfielder from San Diego prefers to stay out of the spotlight, but his hard work allows players like Adalberto Carrasquilla to shine. Godoy commands deep respect in the Panama locker room; his presence is indispensable.
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
La Marea Roja is known for being one of the most fervent supporter groups in Concacaf. They are loud, proud, and maintain a respectful demeanor. After eight long years awaiting another World Cup opportunity, fans will travel in droves. Copa Airlines, which transported the team on a red and white plane, is providing special flights to the US, Canada, and Mexico. Keep an eye out for the sombreros!
U.S. Relations and Political Context
The relationship with the United States has been fraught, particularly regarding the Panama Canal. Last year, Trump remarked, “We’re going to take it back or something very powerful is going to happen.” accusing Panama of breaching the neutrality treaty and accommodating Chinese influence. The Panamanian government firmly rejected Trump’s comments. Neither Christiansen nor the players wish to address the matter, prioritizing national pride instead. Fans have voiced concerns over the high costs of tickets and transportation in the U.S. but have largely steered clear of the broader political issues. While the canal controversy remains delicate, the national team is focused on football, not politics.
