Panama — World Cup 2026
Los Canaleros are back. After a historic debut in Russia 2018, Panama qualified for 2026 carrying renewed hope — with Lyon sensation Ismael Díaz leading the charge alongside creative maestro Adalberto Carrasquilla. Group L awaits with England, Croatia, and Ghana.
Panama at a Glance
Six Storylines for Panama 2026
1. Ismael Díaz — Panama's New Star
The Lyon forward is Panama's brightest talent. His pace, finishing, and ability to play in France's top flight puts him in a different class. Díaz can be the match-winner Los Canaleros need against elite opposition.
2. Carrasquilla — The Creative Engine
Adalberto Carrasquilla at Houston Dynamo is Panama's creative heartbeat. His vision and ability to pick passes in tight spaces gives Los Canaleros the quality needed to compete at the World Cup level.
3. Group L Reality Check — England, Croatia, Ghana
Panama face Three Lions favourites England plus Croatia and Ghana. The task is enormous. But every World Cup throws up a CONCACAF upset — and Los Canaleros know North American soil better than anyone.
4. 2018 Russia — The Historic Debut
Panama's first World Cup in Russia 2018 was emotional and historic. They lost all three games — but Felipe Baloy's goal against England, at age 37, made him the oldest goal scorer of the tournament. That chapter ends; 2026 is a new story.
5. CONCACAF Pedigree — Gold Cup Runners-Up Twice
Panama reached the CONCACAF Gold Cup final in both 2021 (lost to USA) and 2023 (lost to Mexico). They are a genuine regional power — consistent, physical, and tactically disciplined.
6. Home Tournament Boost
Playing in the USA, Canada, and Mexico is as close to a home tournament as Panama can get. The fan base in North America is huge. The Canal country will travel in numbers and the support could be the difference in a tight group game.
Key Players to Watch
Panama Highlights
LIVE NOW: England v Panama | Group Stage | 2018 FIFA WORLD CUP RUSSIA™
Panama's First FIFA World Cup Goal! #shorts #panama #felipebaloy
EVERY Goal From The World Cup 2026 Play-Off Final Teams!
@nerevolution’s Matt Turner is ready for his 2nd @fifa World Cup! 🧤
Danley Jean Jacques is ready to ball out at the World Cup with Haiti!🇭🇹⚽️
Messi Makes Mark Against Mexico #shorts #worldcup #argentina
FULL MATCH: Portugal v Netherlands | 2006 FIFA World Cup
