Panama forward Ismael Diaz has issued a bold statement ahead of his country’s opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Ghana, insisting his team fears no opponent.
The 29-year-old striker believes Panama have developed the confidence and mentality required to compete with the world’s best teams and is backing his side to rise to the occasion in Toronto.
“We’re really not afraid of anyone, and we want to compete against whoever comes up against us,” Diaz said.
The experienced attacker, who also featured at the 2018 World Cup, said Panama’s recent growth has helped the squad approach major tournaments with greater belief and ambition.
Panama face Ghana in their Group L opener before taking on England and Croatia as they chase a historic place in the knockout stages.