Ghana vs Panama — World Cup 2026 Group · Matchday 1
Match preview / What to expect
Updated Jun 6, 2026Group L's other opener pits Ghana, drawn alongside England, against a battle-hardened Panama in a fixture both sides will see as a must-win for second place. Otto Addo's Black Stars carry Premier League quality in Mohammed Kudus and Thomas Partey; Thomas Christiansen's Panama are organised, physical and seasoned from CONCACAF's grind.
Ghana will look to dominate the ball and get Kudus on it in dangerous areas, with Partey controlling the midfield; Panama will be compact, aggressive in the duels and dangerous from set pieces and quick breaks.
Expect Ghana to carry the greater individual threat and Panama to make it a physical, stop-start contest. In a group where England are favourites, this profiles as the real fight for the runners-up berth — and a tight, tense battle to match.
Key storylines
- 01The scrap for second: with England fancied, this looks decisive for the runners-up spot.
- 02Mohammed Kudus is Ghana's standout attacking talent.
- 03Thomas Partey anchors and dictates from midfield.
- 04Panama's physical, organised CONCACAF resilience.
- 05Set pieces could swing a tight contest either way.
Prediction
Ghana's individual quality to just edge it. Friendly call: Ghana 1-1 Panama in a tense, even contest.
