Panama begins new era with Thomas Christiansen, heads to Japan tournament

The Panamanian national football team is set to embark on a new phase under the guidance of head coach Thomas Christiansen, participating in an international quadrangular tournament in Japan this October. This event marks the team's return to competition following their participation in the 2026 World Cup.

The team will kick off their campaign on October 1 against New Zealand at the Yokohama International Stadium. The tournament's other semifinal will feature hosts Japan against Ecuador. The winners will compete for the title on October 5 in Tokyo, while the losers will play for third place.

According to the Panamanian Football Federation (FPF), the Asian tour is crucial preparation for the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals scheduled for November, where Panama awaits its opponent. Christiansen's coaching staff aims to consolidate the squad after the World Cup experience and maintain the national team's growth trajectory.

The FPF confirmed Christiansen's continued leadership in July, extending the project he initiated in 2020. The agreement includes a provision for the incoming Executive Committee, to be elected in December, to determine the future of the coaching project without financially burdening the federation.