Captain of the Panama national football team, Anibal Godoy, has warned group opponents that his side are fully prepared to compete at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Panama, often viewed as underdogs at the tournament, will be making their second World Cup appearance after their debut at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. They have been placed in Group L alongside England, Ghana, and Croatia.
Godoy believes his team’s strong organisation and teamwork will make them difficult opponents despite their underdog status.
"First, that they are great people. Then, that they are quality players. In this team, good players come and go. Tactics-wise, we are a well-oiled machine. This team is prepared to compete and I hope we can make history at this World Cup," he told FIFA.
The experienced defensive midfielder, who is in the books of San Diego FC, played a key role during Panama’s first World Cup appearance in 2018 and will once again lead the side into the 2026 tournament.
Godoy said the lessons he learned from his first World Cup experience have helped him grow both mentally and physically.
"I learned a lot. At an individual level, I learnt to be more patient. I learnt to be more cautious. You play on the pitch at a different pace with elite players. Players who train every day as part of an elite. Players who play every weekend as part of an elite. You must be more mentally prepared. Physically, actually. Handling those emotions and that scenario requires a lot of calm," he added.
Panama will open their World Cup campaign against Ghana on June 17 in Toronto, in what promises to be a hips-cracking encounter.
By: Pascal Amoah
