Panama boss Thomas Christiansen has spoken with striking admiration about Ghana and head coach Otto Addo as both nations gear up for their opening Group L clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reflecting on his early impressions of the draw, Christiansen revealed that his respect for Addo stretches back decades, rooted in their days competing against each other in the German Bundesliga. That shared history, he says, gives him a useful sense of what the Black Stars might bring to their June 17 encounter.
“I faced him when I was a player in the Bundesliga, so I know him and know the quality that he had as a player and what he has brought to the team,” he told 3SPORTS in his first reaction to the draw.
Asamoah Gyan backs Black Stars to defy odds in “tricky” 2026 World Cup
The Panama coach did not stop there. He singled out Ghana’s attacking leader, Inaki Williams, as another element his players cannot afford to overlook. With years of top-flight experience at Athletic Bilbao, Williams remains a major pillar of Ghana’s frontline.
“Of course also we have Inaki Williams because he plays for Athletic Bilbao,” Christiansen added, pointing to the striker’s speed, industry and constant movement as threats Panama must anticipate.
Placed in a daunting group alongside heavyweights England and perennial competitors Croatia, Panama enter the tournament as outsiders. Yet Christiansen maintains that his side must push to be competitive in every fixture, regardless of reputation.
Group L: Ghana brace for a fierce but navigable 2026 World Cup challenge
For Ghana, the mission is clear: reclaim their presence on the global stage and secure a return to the knockout rounds, a feat they last achieved during their unforgettable run in 2010.
