“I Want to End my Time with the Panama National Team by Making History”: Alberto Quintero 2026 World Cup

Panama: Prior to Saturday ‘s training session at the base camp, veteran Alberto “Negrito” Quintero spoke to the media about the internal analysis being carried out by the national team after the loss to Ghana and in preparation for the match on Tuesday, June 23, against Croatia, for the second match of Group L of the 2026 World Cup.  Quintero explained that the coaching staff and the squad have already reviewed the video of the debut and identified both successes and errors that must be corrected before facing a rival of greater footballing stature.  “We’ve reviewed the videos where we made some mistakes.

There were many good things we did in the match against Ghana; we need to repeat those things, or give twice as much as we did in that game. And what we mustn’t repeat are the mistakes we made, because now we’re going to face a team that plays much better football than Ghana,” the experienced midfielder stated.  “Negrito” drew a clear distinction between the two Group L rivals: “Ghana is a very physical team. Croatia does not demand as much physically, but they do with the ball, because they play very good football. So I think that also suits us, given the way we play.” The objective, he said, is simple: “To try to make as few mistakes as possible, to start with full focus, and to take advantage of any chances we might have.” 

The Farewell of a Legend: 19 Years of History

Beyond analyzing the opponent, Quintero spoke frankly about the reality that this will be his last World Cup wearing the Panama jersey, closing a 19-year cycle representing his country.  “I have always represented my country with great sacrifice, giving my all. Yes, this ends here after the World Cup: it’s been 19 years representing my country, with great pride, with highs and lows, but above all with dreams fulfilled,” he expressed, visibly moved. “I have been part of Panamanian football history, qualifying for two World Cups with the Panamanian national team.” 

The veteran player affirmed that he faces the end of his career with the national team with gratitude, not nostalgia: “For me, I’m happy. I’m leaving very content after the World Cup ends. The truth is, I’m enjoying it with all my teammates, because for some— Aníbal said it, and now I’m saying it—these will surely be our last matches. The most important thing here is to enjoy it to the fullest, but above all with that hope, that dream of continuing to make history with the Panamanian national team.”  Panama and Croatia will face off on Tuesday, June 23, at 6:00 pm (Panama time/ET) at BMO Field in Toronto, the same venue where Panama debuted against Ghana.