The Black Stars’ first opponents at the upcoming FIFA World Cup annihilated by Brazil as both South American countries fine tune for the global competition
Panama’s preparation for 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a disappointing setback after they were hammered 6-1 by Brazil in an international friendly
Brazil got to a a flying start as Vinicius Jnr got them in front under one minute with a fine finish after connecting a pass from Casemiro.
However, Panama levelled the score on 14th minute through an own goal. Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha bundled the ball into his own net.
As Panama were growing in confidence, Brazil restored their lead with six minutes remaining to end the first hand and subsequently busted their bubble. Casemiro combined with Vinicius Jnr once again but this time, the former found the back of the net with a cool finish.
After the break, Igor Thiago set up Ryan to widen the scoring lead by the 53rd minute before Lucas Paqueta and Thiago adding one goal each on the hour mark and 63rd minute respectively.
With nine minutes remaining, Danilo Oliveira made it 6-1 after latching onto an assist from Paqueta but Carlos Harvey pulled another one back for Panama as referee Daniel Schlager brought the game to an end with the scoreline at 6-2 in Brazil’s favour.
Meanwhile, Ghana will face Wales in an international friendly on Tuesday, June 2 at the Cardiff City Stadium.
The Black Stars’ first game at the World Cup will be against Panama national football team on Wednesday, 17 June 2026 in the opening Group L match at Toronto Stadium (BMO Field), Toronto, Canada. The game’s kick-off has been scheduled for 7:00 PM local time in Toronto, which is 11:00 PM in Ghana (GMT) and 12:00 midnight in the UK (BST)
