Norwich City Football Club defender José 'Coto' Córdoba, who plays in the English Football League Championship in England, stated that he has worked hard to earn a spot for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Cordoba's words came from the city of Durban during an interview with the press department of the Panamanian Football Federation (FPF) during the Panama Senior National Team training sessions ahead of the friendly matches against South Africa this Friday, March 27, and Tuesday, March 31.
"I have worked mentally, and physically as well. I am happy for the opportunity to return to the national team," added the Panamanian defender, who is going through a great moment with his club in England.
Regarding South Africa, he highlighted that it is a strong team and that it will help them for the match they will face against Ghana in the 2026 World Cup.
In yesterday's training, held at the Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium in the city of Durban, a total of 22 players participated.
Only defender Jiovany Ramos remains, who must join the squad today. Yesterday, Aníbal Godoy, Carlos Harvey, José Luis Rodríguez, and goalkeeper César Samudio joined the team.
Today, Thursday, the team was scheduled to train in the morning to be ready for the first friendly against the 'Bafana Bafana', which will be tomorrow, Friday, at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, in the city of Durban, at 12 noon (Panama time).
"It has been a personal process in which I have worked a lot to be here and to prove to myself that I deserve to be here and to help the country football-wise," expressed Córdoba, who added that he is motivated to achieve his goal.
"The motivation is there."
