Panama have secured their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, returning to football's biggest stage eight years after their historic debut. The team, now the highest-ranked in Central America, aims to prove themselves against the world's elite.

The qualification campaign saw Panama top their second-round group with a perfect record, scoring 10 goals and conceding just one. In the third round, they overcame a slow start to clinch crucial wins against Guatemala and El Salvador, edging out Suriname on the final matchday.

Panama's World Cup debut in 2018 ended in group-stage elimination, but Felipe Baloy's goal against England remains a cherished memory. Since then, the team has grown into a regional powerhouse, reaching the 2023 Gold Cup final and the 2025 Nations League final.

Drawn in Group L alongside former champions England, 2022 semifinalists Croatia, and African giants Ghana, Panama face a daunting task. Two group matches will be played in Canada, one in the United States.

Head coach Thomas Christiansen, in charge since 2020, is the longest-serving coach in Panama's history. The Danish-born former Spain international has led the team to multiple finals. "It's time for us to up our game," he said, emphasizing that Panama should no longer celebrate mere consolation goals.

Key players include forwards Jose Fajardo and Cecilio Waterman, who combined for four goals in the final qualifying round, and midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla. Veterans Anibal Godoy and Amir Murillo provide experience, while youngster Carlos Harvey has impressed.

Panama played two friendlies against South Africa in March, drawing 1-1 and winning 2-1. They will face Brazil in a friendly on May 31 before the World Cup begins.

Source: www.aljazeera.com