Regarding the Very Real Possibility that Panama Could Make it to the 2026 World Cup
At first glance, the World Cup outlook, if Panama qualifies, looks very promising with the new expanded 48-team format, which would give it greater room for maneuver. However, reality could be far from that initial vision given the intensity of this competition and the clear dominance of a handful of South American and European teams. In fact, the major sports betting houses’ predictions, should this Panamanian qualifying scenario materialize, are quite modest, to the point of not seeing Panama advance beyond the round of 16—unless, of course, the team is blessed with a favorable draw, doesn’t face any powerhouses in the group stage, and produces exceptional performances. Let’s delve deeper into this interesting topic!
Current Status in the Qualifiers
Panama has advanced solidly in CONCACAF qualifying, advancing from the second round last June with key victories, including a 3-1 win over Nicaragua and a 2-0 victory over Belize, to lead its group undefeated. In the third round, drawn in June, Panama will be in Group A alongside Guatemala, Suriname, and El Salvador, a favorable pairing given its superiority in the FIFA rankings (Panama is ranked 30th, while Guatemala is 100th, El Salvador is 87th, and Suriname is 136th). The match days begin next September, with Panama predicted to win the group and qualify directly. Indeed, media and betting house projections give them a 70% chance of securing a direct pass. If they don’t top the table, they could qualify for one of the two spots as the best runner-up or through the playoffs. Their unbeaten streak in 18 World Cup qualifying matches reinforces this prediction, although rivals such as Jamaica and Costa Rica in other groups could represent indirect threats to the secondary spots.
Key Players and Tactical Strengths
Panama’s core revolves around veteran players and emerging talents. Club Leon striker Ismael Díaz leads the attack alongside Olympique de Marseille full-back Amir Murillo, who has stood out for his defensive versatility and assists. LASK Linz center-back Andrés Andrade anchors the defense with an 85% passing accuracy, while Club Universidad Nacional midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla controls the pace with his great vision. Goalkeeper Luis Mejía, 34, brings experience from his key saves at the recent Gold Cup. Tactically, under Thomas Christiansen, they adopt a 3-5-2 formation focused on counterattacks and medium pressing, effective in CONCACAF, although they are often exposed against elite teams. Their strengths include team cohesion and aerial duels, but they also have weaknesses such as a lack of depth on the bench and recurring injuries. All of this adds up to a potential Panamanian performance in the next World Cup.
