World Cup 2026: Panama ready to suffer to beat Ghana – Thomas Christiansen

Panama head coach Thomas Christiansen has acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge awaiting his side against Ghana, admitting his players will have to endure difficult moments when the two teams meet in their opening Group L fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, June 17.

Despite overseeing a remarkable rise in Panama’s fortunes over the last few years, the Danish tactician believes his team must be prepared for a fierce battle against the Black Stars if they are to begin their campaign on a positive note.

Panama’s Remarkable Rise Under Christiansen

Since taking charge in 2020, Christiansen has transformed Panama into one of the fastest-rising teams in international football.

Under his leadership, Los Canaleros have climbed from 81st to 34th in the FIFA rankings, highlighting the progress made by the Central American nation ahead of their latest World Cup appearance.

Even with that improvement, Christiansen remains cautious about the task that lies ahead against Ghana.

Injury Concern Clouds Panama Preparations

One of the biggest concerns for Panama heading into the match is the fitness of influential midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla.

The midfielder is not yet fully fit and could start the match on the bench as the coaching staff carefully manages his condition.

“He’s going to be on the bench, and we are going to see how the match is going to be developing tomorrow,” Christiansen said.

His availability could prove crucial as Panama look to compete against one of Africa’s most experienced World Cup sides.

Christiansen Highlights World Cup Reality

The Panama coach also pointed to the competitiveness of the tournament, insisting that every team has shown its ability to make life difficult for opponents.

With England and Croatia also waiting in Group L, Christiansen knows how important it is for his side to secure a positive result in their opening fixture.

“We have seen the matches here at the World Cup, they have been incredibly tight, and you cannot really say that one is less than another,” he said.

‘We Are Going to Be Suffering’

Christiansen delivered a candid assessment of what Panama should expect against stronger opponents, stressing that resilience and unity will be key to their hopes of success.

“There are times where you’re going to be suffering, you’re going to be enduring, you’re going to be up against huge squads, but you’re going to be suffering as a group,” the 53-year-old coach added.

Veteran captain Anibal Godoy echoed that fighting spirit and revealed he is determined to make the most of what could be his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.

“We’re going to be doing it match per match, and I’m going to be giving the very best that I can,” he said.