Panama defender Andres Andrade says his team is ready for a tough match against Ghana as they prepare for their opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The two countries will face each other in their Group L opener at Toronto Stadium on Wednesday, with both sides hoping to begin the tournament with a win.
Speaking after Panama’s training session on Monday, Andrade said the team has carefully studied Ghana and worked on ways to take advantage of any weaknesses.
“The group is very focused; we know what we have to do on Wednesday,” Andrade said.
“We are aware that it won’t be an easy match, but we have been training very well with the coach, we are following his instructions, we know where we can hurt Ghana, and we will try to take advantage of our opportunities.”
The LASK Linz defender said a strong defensive performance will be important if Panama want to get a good result.
“If we keep a clean sheet, we have a great chance of getting a good result,” he added.
Panama have been completing their preparations at their training base in Ontario ahead of the tournament.
Head coach Thomas Christiansen led a lighter training session on Monday, with all 28 players available. Midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla also returned to ball training after recent fitness concerns.
The team will hold one final training session on Tuesday before travelling to Toronto for their official pre-match activities.
Ghana, meanwhile, are hoping to make a strong start in a group that also includes England and Croatia as they look to progress to the knockout stage.
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