Panama's Los Canaleros are set to compete at the WC 2026 in North America. Drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Ghana, the Panamanian national team will look to make their mark at the expanded 48-team tournament. Panama qualified through the CONCACAF 2nd round; CONCACAF 3rd round Group A and now return to football's biggest stage. The tournament kicks off on 11 June and runs through 19 July across stadiums in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Napoleon Sports offers comprehensive coverage of all WC 2026 matches with pre-match and live betting markets.

The WC 2026 will be the largest ever, with 48 nations competing across 12 groups. Among the tournament favourites are Brazil, Argentina, Spain, France and several other world-class teams. For Panama, the goal is to navigate Group L and earn a place in the Round of 32. Follow all fixtures at WC 2026 schedule page.

The Road to WC 2026: How Panama Qualified

Panama qualified for the WC 2026 through CONCACAF 2nd round; CONCACAF 3rd round Group A , finishing in 1st . Román Torres scored the winning goal in the 87th minute against Costa Rica, securing Panama's first the tournament.

"Qualifying for the tournament was our primary objective. Now we must prepare to compete against the best teams in the world on the biggest stage."

- Thomas Christiansen Tarín

Coach Thomas Christiansen Tarín guided the team through qualifying, with the Federación Panameña de Fútbol overseeing Panama's successful campaign to reach football's biggest stage.

This marks Panama's 2th appearance at the tournament. Their the tournament history includes memorable moments that have shaped the nation's footballing identity. For the latest news and squad updates, BBC Sport Panama provides comprehensive coverage of Los Canaleros throughout the tournament.

Bet on Panama at the WC 2026

Panama's Outright Odds to Win WC 2026

Panama enter the tournament ranked 33th in the world. Group L presents a mixed challenge with England, Croatia, Ghana as opponents. Napoleon Sports offers markets on Panama to qualify from the group, exact group finish, and outright tournament odds.

Best Betting Markets and Predictions for Panama

Beyond the outright winner market, there are several interesting betting options for Panama. The to qualify from group market is competitive given that two teams plus the best third-placed sides advance from each group. Player-specific markets such as anytime goalscorer bets offer value, particularly on the squad's key attacking players. Use the BetBuilder to combine selections for Panama's group matches.

How Far Can Panama Go? Realistic Expectations

It is highly unlikely Panama can win the WC 2026 given their historical performance and the strength of their group. Their primary goal will likely be. Napoleon Sports offers markets on Panama to reach specific tournament rounds. The expanded format with a Round of 32 means that finishing in the top two of Group L, or as one of the eight best third-placed teams, is enough to advance.

Follow Panama at WC 2026 on the Napoleon Sports App

Stay on top of every Panamanian match, live odds shift and squad update directly from your phone. The Napoleon Sports app gives you real-time access to all the tournament action.

How to Follow the WC 2026 on the Napoleon Sports App

Panama's Squad for WC 2026

Panama's final 26-man squad was announced by coach Thomas Christiansen ahead of the tournament. Below is the full squad plus selected profiles on key players.

Goalkeepers

Defenders

Midfielders

Forwards

Last 5 Matches: Panama's Recent Form

Panama's recent form shows 3 wins, 0 draws and 2 losses from the last 5 matches heading into the tournament. Coach Thomas Christiansen Tarín has used these fixtures to fine-tune his squad selection and tactical approach ahead of the tournament.

Panama in Group L: Schedule, Opponents and Stadiums

Panama have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, Ghana. The group stage presents both challenges and opportunities for Los Canaleros as they aim to secure one of the qualification spots for the Round of 32.

Head-to-Head: Panama vs. Group L Opponents

Panama vs. England: This Group L encounter will be a key fixture for both teams as they aim to secure progress to the Round of 32. The result could prove decisive in determining the final group standings and which teams advance to the knockout rounds of the tournament.

Panama vs. Croatia: This Group L encounter will be a key fixture for both teams as they aim to secure progress to the Round of 32. The result could prove decisive in determining the final group standings and which teams advance to the knockout rounds of the tournament.

Panama vs. Ghana: This Group L encounter will be a key fixture for both teams as they aim to secure progress to the Round of 32. The result could prove decisive in determining the final group standings and which teams advance to the knockout rounds of the tournament.

Panama's Head Coach for WC 2026

Thomas Christiansen Tarín (Spain, born 1973) leads Panama into the WC 2026. Crowned top scorer of the 2002–03 Bundesliga. CONCACAF Gold Cup runner-up 2023. CONCACAF Nations League runner-up 2024–25. Cypriot First Division title 2016–17 His preferred formations are 5-4-1 or 4-2-3-1; his teams are known for playing as a cohesive unit.

His record with Panama stands at 40-19-24, reflecting the progress made under his leadership.

Panama's Official Kits for WC 2026

Panama's WC History and Records

Panama have appeared at 2 World Cups in total, with their first appearance at the tournament coming in 2018. Their best finish was Group stage 2018.

Panama at the 2022 World Cup

Panama did not qualify for the 2022 World Cup, with their qualification campaign ending in a 5-1 defeat to the United States.

Memorable WC Moments for Panama

Historic moment: Felipe Baloy scored Panama's first the tournament goal against England in 2018.

Iconic achievement: The players standing at attention for the national anthem in their opening match against Belgium in 2018 was a deeply emotional moment for the team and fans.

All-time top scorer: Luis Tejada;43 goals. Most capped player: Aníbal Godoy;159 caps. Top WC scorer: Felipe Baloy;1 goal. For the latest squad values and statistics, check the detailed breakdown.

Frequently Asked Questions about Panama at the tournament

Play responsibly. Napoleon Sports is licensed by the Belgian Gaming Commission. 21+. For support, visit stopoptijd.be.