Panama

Panama’s football story changed forever in 2018, when the country qualified for its first ever FIFA World Cup. That campaign in Russia was difficult, with Panama losing all three group matches, but it gave the nation unforgettable moments — especially their first ever World Cup goal, scored by Felipe Baloy against England.

The 2026 tournament gave Panama a second chance to write a stronger chapter. Under Danish coach Thomas Christiansen, the national team had grown in confidence, structure and belief. Panama were no longer simply happy to be at the tournament; they arrived aiming to compete properly and chase the first World Cup win in their history.

Panama opened Group L against Ghana, then faced Croatia, before finishing against England. It was a brutal group on paper, with African power, Croatian tournament intelligence and English star quality all waiting. Panama were far more competitive than in 2018, losing two of the three matches by a single goal, but three defeats meant another group-stage exit.

Ghana were Panama’s opening opponents and the most important match of their tournament. The Black Stars brought pace, strength and World Cup pedigree, and a single goal was enough for a 1-0 Ghana win.

Croatia brought elite tournament experience and one of the most respected midfield cultures in world football. With Luka Modrić still central to their story, Croatia were expected to control the match, but Panama made them work hard for a 1-0 win.

England were Panama’s final group opponents and the most familiar World Cup name in the group. England beat Panama heavily in 2018, and this time the margin was far closer, England winning 2-0 to seal top spot.

Red, white and blue — Panama’s colours are bold, clean and tied directly to the national flag. The home shirt is usually red, giving Los Canaleros a strong and passionate identity on the pitch, while white and blue details complete the national look.

For mystery shirt fans, Panama are a brilliant World Cup pull because the shirt carries underdog energy. This is not one of the obvious giants — it is a country still chasing its first ever World Cup win, backed by a passionate fanbase and a national team trying to prove its 2018 debut was only the beginning. A Panama shirt feels rare, colourful and full of tournament story.