As the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico draws near, the Central American powerhouse Panama is set to return to the world's biggest stage after an eight-year absence. This team, which takes pride in being the "Land of the Canal," has shed the rawness of its 2018 debut. Under the guidance of Danish coach Thomas Christiansen, Panama stormed through CONCACAF qualifying unbeaten, and with grit and passion, they are ready to write a brand-new chapter on North American soil.

Christiansen has shaped Panama into a team built on a low defensive block and quick, precise counter-attacks. They favor a solid 5-4-1 defensive shape, with the ability to flex into a balanced 4-4-2. Defensively, the entire team drops deep, crowding spaces and compressing lanes. The midfield presses in layers, while the backline sticks tight and plays physically, making it extremely difficult to break through the middle. On offense, they don't waste time with aimless possession. After winning the ball back, they quickly launch long balls forward, using their pace on the wings to exploit space behind the opposition — a simple and ruthlessly efficient approach.

The squad is built around players from MLS and other regional leagues, supplemented by a handful of solid contributors from European clubs. They are a tight-knit group with strong tactical discipline and physicality well-suited for a high-stakes tournament setting.

At right back, 32-year-old Michael Murillo — a veteran of Ligue 1 and the Turkish Super Lig — brings pinpoint crossing and set-piece ability. He was part of Panama's 2018 World Cup squad. On the left, veteran Eric Davis adds similar World Cup experience. 

Up front, forward José Fajardo provides strength and hold-up play, thriving on getting on the end of chances in the box. Meanwhile, Cecilio Waterman brings blistering pace and clever movement, making him a lethal counter-attacking threat — most notably scoring a dramatic late winner against the United States in the CONCACAF Nations League.

At the 2026 World Cup, Panama has been drawn into Group L as a third-seeded team, alongside England, Croatia, and Ghana. Their opener against Ghana is critical. Ghana is an African powerhouse with significant World Cup experience and strong physical attributes. If Panama cannot get a result against Ghana, finding points against a strong Croatia side and a star-studded England team will be an uphill battle.