Panama Overcome Hurdles to reach World Cup 2026.

Panama fought through a difficult qualifying campaign to confirm their place in their Second FIFA World Cup.

For the second time in their history, Panama will be appearing at the FIFA World Cup. Los Canaleros have reached next year’s global showpiece in North America after winning Group A of the third round of Concacaf qualifying.

On the final matchday, Panama defeated El Salvador 3-0 and leaped over Suriname in the standings to secure their World Cup spot.

It is no understatement to say that Panama have emerged as the top team in Central America in recent years, evidenced by their qualification to Russia 2018, along with runs to the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup final and 2024 Nations League final.

Panama breezed through the second round of qualifying with four wins from four matches in a group with Nicaragua, Guyana, Montserrat and Belize.

The third round proved to be much more difficult for coach Thomas Christiansen’s men. Drawn with Suriname, Guatemala and El Salvador, Panama had just six points after four matchdays, but found their stride when it mattered most in the November window, posting a massive 3-2 win at Guatemala before Tuesday’s triumph against El Salvador.

The dynamic duo of Jose Fajardo and Cecilio Waterman made the difference, as they combined for four goals in the final round, while midfield maestro Adalberto Carrasquilla made sure Panama never lost their shape in the centre of the park.

Panama went winless in Russia nearly eight years ago, but the belief will be there that North America in 2026 will be a different story.

Panama at the FIFA World Cup:

First appearance: 2018

Appearances: Two (2018, 2026)

Best result: Group stage (2018)

Team Maverick