Panama's national team requires a positive result in Curacao this Thursday to progress in the CONCACAF Nations League. The first leg of the quarter-final tie kicks off at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad at 7:30 p.m. local Panamanian time.
The away goals rule is in effect, making it imperative for Thomas Christiansen's side to score at least once on the road. The winner of this two-legged series will qualify for the 2026-2027 CONCACAF Nations League Final Four and also secure a direct spot in the group stage of the 2027 Gold Cup.
Head coach Thomas Christiansen has outlined the objective. "Los dirigidos por Thomas Christiansen buscarán el triunfo y cerrar de la mejor manera en casa," said the manager, referencing the return leg set for next Sunday, November 15, at the Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez Stadium. The appointed referee for the first leg is American official Tori Penso.
Panama enters this fixture on the back of a two-game unbeaten run in recent friendlies, including a 1-1 draw with Ecuador in October. In that match, Amir Murillo and Carlos Harvey were among the penalty scorers for the draw. The team's recent form shows zero wins and two draws, remaining unbeaten in its last two outings, after also drawing 1-1 with New Zealand in early October. The next official fixture following this quarter-final series is an away match against Curacao on Friday 13 November. The team will wear its traditional white kit in Curacao. The match will be broadcast on FOX Deportes via pay television. The decisive second leg is scheduled for three days later in Panama City.
More detail at Tvn Panamá
