2026 World Cup: Panama lose heavily to Brazil in friendly ahead of Ghana Opener

Prior to Panama’s opening game at the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Ghana, the team has suffered a big loss to record World Cup winners Brazil.

Panama lost 6-2 to Brazil in a friendly game as both nations prepare for this month’s World Cup with Brazil drawn in Group C against Morocco, Haiti and Scotland. (Scroll down to watch goals)

Panama are in Group L alongside Ghana, England and Croatia; its opening game against Ghana is scheduled for June 17 in Canada.

Brazil got a 2-1 first half lead thanks to a thunderous strike from Vinicius Junior and a goal from Casemiro in the 39^th minute after Cunha conceded an own goal in the 14^th minute.

However, in the second half, Brazil turned on the style and scored four more goals with the likes of Brentford’s Igor Thiago and AFC Bournemouth’s Rayan getting on the score sheet.

Casemiro of Brazil celebrates with Vinicius Junior of Brazil after scoring the team’s second goal during the international friendly match between Brazil and Panama (Photo by Andre Ricardo/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images)

Carlos Harvey, who plays for Minnesota United in the MLS, delivered an eye catching goal for Panama’s second. Harvey’s brilliant long range effort zoomed past Alisson into the net.

Vinicius Junior of Brazil celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the international friendly match between Brazil and Panama (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

Despite missing the game to injury, veteran forward Neymar proved to be the star of the show as coaches and players of Panama took turns taking pictures with the former FC Barcelona star.

Ei see some goal Panama score
SM we beg o🤣 pic.twitter.com/WqsY8hUwsq

— ACCRA MAYOR 🥲🥷 (@0panaa_1) May 31, 2026

Luego de perder 6-2 vs Brasil, todo el plantel de Panamá, incluyendo suplentes y cuerpo técnico, hicieron fila para sacarse fotos con Neymar pic.twitter.com/tMuGtxZ7dR

— Pablo Giralt (@giraltpablo) May 31, 2026