Panama arrive at 2026 as a nation still writing their World Cup story. This is only their second appearance at the tournament, after a debut in Russia 2018 that ended with three group stage defeats: nil three to Belgium, one six to England, and one two to Tunisia. That tournament nonetheless delivered a milestone every Panamanian football fan carries: defender Felipe Baloy's late goal against England, the country's first ever goal at a senior World Cup. A nation that failed to qualify ten times before 2018 now stands on the global stage for a second time, carrying considerably more belief.

Panama earned their place in 2026 through CONCACAF's revamped final round, navigating Group A alongside El Salvador, Guatemala, and Suriname. They were unbeaten across six matches, collecting three wins and three draws. Going into the final matchday level on points with Suriname, Panama delivered when it mattered, beating El Salvador three goals to nil at home in November 2025 while Guatemala did them the favour of beating Suriname that same evening. Earlier in the campaign, a three goals to two triumph in Guatemala City marked the first time Panama had ever won on Guatemalan soil, a result that signalled a team no longer content just to qualify.