Panama's 2026 World Cup Squad: Christiansen Leans on Experience for Historic Second World Cup

By WorldCup.NYC Editorial — May 28, 2026

Panama's final 26 was confirmed on May 26 at a ceremony at the Panama Canal Administration Building. Seven players from the 2018 squad return. Teenage standout Kadir Barría is the notable omission. Los Canaleros face Ghana, Croatia, and England — the latter at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 27.

Thomas Christiansen unveiled Panama's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in a ceremony fitting the occasion: at the Panama Canal Administration Building, the most iconic symbol of a country that has spent a generation proving it belongs on football's biggest stage. This is Panama's second World Cup appearance — their first was in Russia 2018 — and the squad Christiansen has assembled reflects the philosophy that got them here: trust the veterans, maintain the defensive structure, and make life as difficult as possible for opponents with far greater international pedigree.

Panama are in Group L alongside Ghana, Croatia, and England. Their final group game — against England on June 27 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford — is the match that brings Los Canaleros to the New York region.

The Full Squad

Christiansen's Approach: Experience Over Gamble

The headline of the selection process is what Christiansen chose not to do. Teenage talent Kadir Barría — widely considered Panama's most exciting young prospect — was left out of the final 26, a decision that drew immediate debate among Panamanian supporters. Christiansen has been consistent throughout his tenure: in a group this difficult, chemistry and defensive reliability take precedence over potential.

Seven players who appeared at Russia 2018 are back, led by captain Anibal Godoy, who at 159 international caps is one of the most experienced players at this entire tournament. Godoy has been the heartbeat of this Panama side for over a decade — a tireless defensive midfielder whose reading of the game and organizational ability allow Christiansen's team to absorb pressure and hit on the counter. Alongside him, Eric Davis brings over 100 caps of his own.

The defensive unit has the experience to frustrate. Amir Murillo and Michael Murillo — no relation — provide width and quality at full back. Fidel Escobar, who plays his club football with the New York Red Bulls, will be a familiar face to fans in the region.

The Group L Picture

England enter Group L as heavy favorites and one of the contenders for the tournament overall. Croatia — World Cup finalists in 2018 and semi-finalists in 2022 — are the second team of substance in the group. Ghana, making their return to the World Cup, provide the third obstacle. Panama will be viewed as outsiders by most pre-tournament analysis.

That is familiar territory for this side. At Russia 2018, Panama lost all three group stage matches but scored their first two World Cup goals in the process — an achievement that was celebrated as a national milestone. Eight years later, the target is advancement. A win against Ghana in the opener on June 17 would immediately change the conversation.

Panama's Group L Schedule

For fans planning to attend Panama vs. England at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 27, see our MetLife Stadium transit guide and where to stay guide for the full logistics picture.