This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among top media organizations from the 48 qualified nations. Previews are being published daily as the tournament approaches, set to commence on June 11.
La Marea Roja arrives with determination and enthusiasm. Following their groundbreaking World Cup appearance in 2018, they are set on advancing from the group stage. With Michael Murillo anchoring the defense, midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla adding creativity, and captain Aníbal Godoy embodying the team’s spirit, Panama is eager to carve out a new narrative.
This squad displays greater maturity compared to the 2018 team. Under the guidance of coach Thomas Christiansen, they have adopted a pragmatic approach characterized by solid defense, swift transitions, and a strong physical presence. Typically employing a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation, Murillo stands out as a key player at right-back, although a back five might be utilized against formidable opponents. Godoy excels at recovering possession, while Carrasquilla is adept at utilizing it. Up front, Ismael Díaz and José Rodríguez bring pace and precision.
The Road to the World Cup
Panama finished at the top of their Concacaf qualifying group, allowing just four goals during the final phase and confirming their place in the finals with a decisive 3-0 victory over El Salvador last November. They have shown improvements in maintaining possession and enter North America with heightened confidence after reaching the quarter-finals of the 2024 Copa América and the final of the 2023 Gold Cup.
Upcoming fixtures for Panama in Group K include:
Group K Fixtures
- June 17 vs. Ghana, Toronto (7 PM local, June 18 12 AM BST, June 18 9 AM AEST)
- June 23 vs. Croatia, Toronto (7 PM local, June 24 12 AM BST, June 24 9 AM AEST)
- June 27 vs. England, New York/New Jersey (5 PM local, 10 PM BST, June 28 7 AM AEST)
“Our faith moves mountains,” said Christiansen. “To be at the World Cup for the second time, we want to improve on 2018 and compete like never before.”
Godoy shares this sentiment.
“We will give everything. This group is united and hungry to make history.”
The primary goal is to advance beyond the group. Christiansen aims to demonstrate discipline to avoid a repeat of the 2018 6-1 defeat against England, who they face again. The dream is to progress to the last 16, and the team is optimistic about achieving this.
Thomas Christiansen: The Architect
Since taking over in 2020, Thomas Christiansen has significantly shaped the team. The Danish coach embarked on his playing career with Barcelona’s B team and has spent considerable time in Spain. After successful coaching stints in Cyprus, he managed Leeds and Union Saint-Gilloise. The 53-year-old has molded Panama into a formidable side, guiding them to the 2023 Gold Cup final and the quarter-finals of the 2024 Copa América. “We want to compete and get out of the group. The selección is more than ready,” Christiansen asserts, emphasizing that his squad will not shy away from any challenge.
Star Player: Michael Murillo
Michael Murillo stands as Panama’s key player. The 30-year-old right-back for Besiktas boasts over 90 international caps and has experience in MLS, Belgium, France, and Turkey. His speed, one-on-one skills, and threat in the attacking area make him vital for the team’s success. Murillo’s leadership extends beyond the pitch, as he has become a guiding figure without wearing the captain’s armband. Raised in Colón with his mother and siblings, he embraced football despite his family’s love for baseball, driven by a desire to support them. Now regarded as a national treasure, he remains grounded, stating, “Be proud of your family, fight for your family and believe in your family,”
Emerging Talent: José Rodríguez
José Rodríguez faced adversity early in life, losing his father at just 10 years old. However, the young player from Panama City channeled his experiences into his passion for football and family. The speedy winger has gained recognition across leagues in Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and Serbia, and is unafraid to take shots from distance, having scored during the 2018 World Cup group stage against Tunisia. Now 27 and playing in Mexico, he credits his growth to coach Thomas Christiansen.
“I’m very grateful to ‘El Profe’ … we know each other very well and we’re like a family,”
Unsung Hero: Aníbal Godoy
With a national record of over 150 caps, Aníbal Godoy is the most seasoned player on the Panama roster. At 36, he remains a crucial asset for Christiansen, known for his ability to recover possession, fill defensive gaps, and lead his teammates. While not often in the spotlight, Godoy’s hard work allows players like Adalberto Carrasquilla to excel. His presence is highly valued within the squad, as many recognize that the team would not be the same without him.
Projected Starting XI
Fan Expectations
La Marea Roja (the Red Wave) is known for its fervent support in Concacaf. Their enthusiasm is matched by respect for the game. After eight long years awaiting another World Cup opportunity, fans are set to travel en masse, with Copa Airlines arranging special flights to the US, Canada, and Mexico. Keep an eye out for their signature sombreros.
Political Context with the US
Relations with the United States remain strained, particularly regarding the Panama Canal. Last year, Trump remarked, “We’re going to take it back or something very powerful is going to happen.” accusing Panama of breaching neutrality agreements and embracing Chinese influence. The Panamanian government firmly rejected these comments. Neither Christiansen nor the players wish to address the controversy, as the federation emphasizes national pride. While fans have expressed frustrations over ticket prices and transportation in the U.S., they have largely steered clear of the broader political debates. The canal dispute is a sensitive issue, but the team is focused on football, not politics.
