Panama will host Mexico in an international friendly on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Estadio Rommel Fernández in Panama City.
This fixture kicks off both teams’ 2026 calendar as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup later in the year — Panama as a qualified team and Mexico gearing up with a domestic-based squad due to the match falling outside the FIFA international window.
Panama vs Mexico Match Info
- Tournament: International Friendly
- Match Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026
- Kick-off Time: 9:00 PM (local)
- Stadium: Estadio Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez, Panama City, Panama
- Context: Mexico will field a squad comprised mainly of Liga MX players as head coach Javier Aguirre uses these friendlies to test talent ahead of the World Cup cycle.
- Match tickets: Seatpick will provide ticket for the match
Team News
Mexico has announced a 27-player squad made up entirely of Liga MX players for their January friendlies, including this match against Panama and a subsequent friendly against Bolivia. Notable names include Brian Gutierrez and Richard Ledezma among midfield options.
Panama have mixed recent form but will be boosted by home support and the chance to compete against a regional heavyweight.
Their coach, Thomas Christiansen has guided Panama to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the nation’s second appearance at the tournament.
Head-to-Head (All-Time)
Mexico has historically dominated the rivalry, winning all five of the last meetings with Panama and scoring significantly more goals while conceding very few.
| Matches | Mexico Wins | Panama Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
Recent Meetings (Last 5)
| Date | Competition | Result | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 23, 2025 | CONCACAF Nations League Final | Mexico vs Panama | 2–1 |
| Mar 21, 2024 | CONCACAF Nations League | Panama vs Mexico | 0–3 |
| Jul 16, 2023 | CONCACAF Gold Cup Final | Mexico vs Panama | 1–0 |
| Jun 18, 2023 | CONCACAF Nations League | Panama vs Mexico | 0–1 |
| Feb 2, 2022 | World Cup Qualifying (CONCACAF) | Mexico vs Panama | 1–0 |
Panama vs Mexico Confirmed Starting XI
Panama possible starting lineup:
Mejia; Davis, Andrade, Escobar, Murillo; Godoy; Ayarza, Barcenas, Carrasquilla, Yanis; Blackburn
Mexico possible starting lineup:
Ochoa; Gallardo, Araujo, Montes, Sanchez; Alvarez; Alvarado, Guardado, Rodriguez, Corona, Funes Mori
Panama Key Players
- Aníbal Godoy (Midfielder)
- Michael Amir Murillo (Defender)
- Andrés Andrade (Defender):
Mexico Key Players
- Santiago Giménez (Forward)
- Raúl Jiménez (Forward)
- Edson Álvarez (Midfielder/Defender)
Prediction
Mexico’s historical advantage and greater depth — even with a Liga MX-only squad — give El Tri the edge in this encounter.
However, Panama’s home advantage and recent upward trajectory make this a competitive friendly. A tight match is expected, but Mexico’s quality should edge them ahead.
- Prediction: Panama 1–2 Mexico
How to Watch Panama vs Mexico Friendly Match
Broadcast and streaming details will vary by region and local rights holders. Major sports networks and online platforms in CONCACAF territories typically carry international friendlies — fans should check local listings as match day approaches.
When is Panama vs Mexico international friendly?
Panama vs Mexico will be played on Thursday, January 22, 2026, as part of the international friendly schedule.
Where will Panama vs Mexico be played?
The match will take place at Estadio Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez in Panama City, Panama.
What time does Panama vs Mexico kick off?
The friendly is scheduled to kick off at 9:00 PM local time in Panama.
Is Panama vs Mexico an official competition match?
No. The match is an international friendly, played as preparation for upcoming tournaments including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Will Mexico use full-strength squad against Panama?
Mexico are expected to field a squad mainly made up of Liga MX–based players, as the match is being played outside the FIFA international window.
What is the purpose of this friendly for both teams?
Both Panama and Mexico are using this match to test squad depth, tactical options, and younger players ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle.
Who are the key players to watch in Panama vs Mexico?
For Panama, experienced internationals and home-based players are expected to play key roles, while Mexico’s squad includes several Liga MX standouts and emerging talents.
Is Panama vs Mexico available to watch live in the USA?
Broadcast and streaming details depend on regional rights, but the match is expected to be available via sports TV networks or streaming platforms covering international friendlies in the USA.
