Panama’s World Cup qualifying draw with Guatemala leaves its path to the 2026 tournament uncertain. Explore match details, Group A standings, key reactions, and what comes next for Panama.
Panama World Cup Qualifying Draw Against Guatemala Complicates Road to 2026
Introduction: A Crucial Result in Panama’s Journey
The Panama World Cup qualifying draw with Guatemala on September 8, 2025, has raised concerns about the team’s chances of making it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite playing at home in the Rommel Fernández Stadium, Panama could only manage a 1-1 draw against Guatemala in CONCACAF qualifying Group A.
Head coach Thomas Christiansen emphasized after the match that Panama must be more effective in front of goal. With the standings shifting after Suriname’s surprise victory over El Salvador, Panama now faces a tougher road ahead.
Panama vs. Guatemala: Match Overview
The game began with Panama dominating possession, but Guatemala capitalized on one of its few chances.
- In the 34th minute, Óscar Santis scored for Guatemala with a precise right-footed strike.
- Just three minutes later, Carlos Harvey equalized for Panama with a powerful header from an Eric Davis corner kick.
- Both teams had opportunities in the second half, but the score remained 1-1.
This Panama World Cup qualifying draw reflected both Panama’s attacking intent and its lack of finishing power.
Group A Standings After Matchday 2
Here’s how the table looks after the latest matches:
| Team | Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suriname | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 |
| El Salvador | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| Panama | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
| Guatemala | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Panama currently sits in third place, making the upcoming matches vital for its World Cup qualification hopes.
Coaches’ Reactions After the Draw
Thomas Christiansen (Panama)
- “Now we have to show that we deserve to be in the World Cup. The results we’ve achieved aren’t enough to warrant it.”
- “If we have 13 chances and don’t score, it’s difficult to win matches. In the end, that’s what can leave you out of a World Cup.”
His frustration highlighted Panama’s offensive inefficiency despite the team’s dominance.
Luis Fernando Tena (Guatemala)
- “In the end, it was a fair draw. We’re leaving happy with the determination, character, and personality of our players.”
Guatemala saw the Panama World Cup qualifying draw as a positive outcome, especially away from home.
Panama’s Struggles in CONCACAF Qualifying
The Panama World Cup qualifying draw was the second tie in two games. This suggests a worrying pattern: Panama dominates but fails to secure wins.
Key Issues:
- Lack of finishing – multiple missed opportunities.
- Over-reliance on set-pieces – Harvey’s goal came from a corner, not open play.
- Group pressure – Suriname’s unexpected strength adds extra competition.
This means Panama must take maximum points in upcoming fixtures to stay alive in World Cup 2026 qualification.
Impact of Suriname’s Surprise Victory
In another Group A shocker, Suriname defeated El Salvador 2-1 at Cuscatlán Stadium. Goals from Radinio Balker and Dhoraso Klas pushed Suriname to the top of the standings.
This result directly affects Panama, as Suriname now holds the upper hand in the group.
What’s Next for Panama?
The third matchday could prove decisive:
- Panama will visit El Salvador on October 10.
- Suriname will host Guatemala the same day.
A win against El Salvador is crucial. Another Panama World Cup qualifying draw or loss could leave Christiansen’s team in a near-impossible position.
Road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup: CONCACAF Format
The 2026 World Cup qualification format for CONCACAF is competitive:
| Qualification Path | Details |
|---|---|
| Group Winners | Qualify directly for World Cup |
| Hosts | USA, Mexico, Canada already qualified |
| Best 2 Runners-Up | Playoff in March 2026 |
| Total CONCACAF Teams | Up to 8 possible at World Cup |
Panama must aim for first place in Group A, or at least secure a strong second-place finish to reach the playoff round.
Statistical Breakdown of Panama vs. Guatemala
| Statistic | Panama | Guatemala |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 62% | 38% |
| Shots (on target) | 15 (5) | 6 (2) |
| Corners | 7 | 3 |
| Fouls | 14 | 12 |
| Goals | 1 | 1 |
Despite dominating statistically, Panama’s inability to convert chances made the Panama World Cup qualifying draw a frustrating result.
Fans’ Reactions: Frustration and Determination
Panama fans voiced concerns on social media about the team’s missed opportunities. While many expressed frustration, others remain optimistic, pointing to the team’s experience and Christiansen’s leadership.
For Guatemala, the draw was celebrated as proof of progress under Luis Fernando Tena, especially after battling hard in Panama City.
Why the Panama World Cup Qualifying Draw Matters
The significance of this result cannot be overstated:
- Dropped home points may haunt Panama later.
- Suriname’s rise means fewer safety nets.
- Upcoming fixtures now carry extra weight.
If Panama fails to qualify, the 1-1 draw with Guatemala will be remembered as a turning point.
FAQs About Panama World Cup Qualifying Draw
Q1: What was the result of the Panama vs Guatemala match?
A: The game ended in a 1-1 Panama World Cup qualifying draw, with goals from Óscar Santis (Guatemala) and Carlos Harvey (Panama).
Q2: How does this draw affect Panama’s chances for the 2026 World Cup?
A: Panama now sits third in Group A, making upcoming matches against El Salvador and Suriname crucial.
Q3: Who scored for Panama in the match?
A: Carlos Harvey equalized with a header from a corner kick.
Q4: What are the rules for CONCACAF World Cup qualification?
A: Each group winner qualifies directly, while the two best runners-up advance to a playoff in March 2026.
Q5: Who leads Group A after Matchday 2?
A: Suriname leads the group with 4 points, followed by El Salvador (3), Panama (2), and Guatemala (1).
Q6: What did Panama’s coach say about the draw?
A: Thomas Christiansen emphasized that Panama must improve finishing, warning that missed chances could cost them World Cup qualification.
Q7: When is Panama’s next World Cup qualifying match?
A: Panama faces El Salvador away on October 10, 2025.
Conclusion: A Must-Win Future
The Panama World Cup qualifying draw against Guatemala has left Thomas Christiansen’s side under pressure. With two draws in two matches, Panama must shift from dominating possession to finishing chances.
The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is still open, but only if Panama learns from this match. Upcoming games against El Salvador and Suriname may decide whether Panama reaches its third-ever World Cup or falls short in the qualifiers.