Former Ghana international and coach Laryea Kingson has cautioned the Black Stars of Ghana against underestimating Panama.

The two countries are set to kick off their respective 2026 FIFA World Cup campaigns against each other in Toronto on June 17, 2026.

Ghana and Panama were pitted alongside European giants England and Croatia in the World Cup draw that came off in Washington DC on Farmers’ Day.

Reacting to the draw, the former Ghana winger said, “Ghana is in a tough group. I will advise the Black Stars not to underestimate Panama. Their qualification to the tournament was not just by fluke.”

Panama is making her second appearance at the world’s biggest football showpiece after topping Group A of Concacaf qualifiers, which had Suriname, Guatemala, and El Salvador.