Panama's national team is preparing for crucial matches and opening doors to new players. Head coach Thomas Christiansen emphasized the need to carefully protect the image of the country and the national team. He announced the beginning of a new five-year cycle, during which players will have little time to prove their worth. Christiansen noted that he is in the final stages of selecting the 26 players for the 2026 World Cup in Mexico, the USA, and Canada. According to him, it is time to 'turn the page' and give other athletes a chance. The Panamanian team will play friendly matches against Bolivia and Mexico, where the coach plans to not only compete but also 'leave a good impression'. He also commented on the situation with some players who were not released by Plaza Amador. 'Plaza did not lend them to me,' stated Christiansen.
Christiansen recalled the heavy 6-1 defeat against Chile in February 2025, urging the team to avoid a similar outcome. He expressed hope that the upcoming games will be an opportunity for the team to show quality football. 'We don't want to expose ourselves, but to get into a position that will open other options for us,' the coach concluded.
