Panama’s Jiovany Ramos Expects Fierce Battle Against Ghana in Toronto
Panama defender Jiovany Ramos has identified Ghana as one of the toughest opponents his side could face at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting the Black Stars’ physicality and aggressive style ahead of their Group L showdown.
The two nations are set to lock horns at Toronto Stadium on Wednesday in a crucial opening fixture that could play a significant role in shaping the group standings, which also feature England and Croatia.
As preparations intensify, Ramos admitted Panama will need to remain disciplined and tactically organised to contain the threat posed by the four-time African champions.
“Ghana is a very strong, aggressive team, but we have to play our game, stay focused, well-positioned, with compact lines, because we know that at any moment our goal can come,” Ramos said.
The 28-year-old defender stressed the importance of sticking to the team’s tactical approach while remaining patient in search of opportunities to break down the Ghanaian defence.
Panama have been putting the finishing touches to their preparations in Canada and will head into the contest encouraged by the return of influential midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla to training.
Beyond the upcoming challenge, Ramos also reflected on his personal journey to football’s biggest stage. The centre-back revealed that a difficult spell in his career became the motivation he needed to rebuild and earn his place in Panama’s World Cup squad.
“Everything in life happens for a reason,” he explained.
“I had a bit of a slump, I went back to Panama, and after that, I decided to work harder because I knew what was coming. I told myself I had to work twice as hard to achieve it and I did.”
Having scored twice in Panama’s last four matches, Ramos is eager to make his mark on the tournament and help his country achieve its ambitions.
“Now I want to have a good World Cup so that I can have good things in life,” he added.
With the countdown to kick-off continuing, both teams are focused on securing a winning start as they look to boost their chances of reaching the knockout stage. For Ramos and Panama, overcoming Ghana would represent a major statement of intent on the world stage.
