Nicaragua’s Coach Criticizes Panama Press Ahead of Crucial Match

Managua, Nicaragua – Marco Antonio Figueroa, the coach of Nicaragua’s national football team, criticized the Panamanian press as inflated ahead of the important match between La Roja and Nicaragua. Figueroa made these comments during a press conference on Monday, the eve of the Group D showdown in the second round of the Concacaf World Cup qualifying for the 2026 tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

“I hold onto the words of Aníbal Godoy, that Panamanians and the Panamanian press are inflated. I need to stick with that, because football is global, and matches should be played with unique respect for each team and selection,” Figueroa said.

Nicaragua arrives at this match following a narrow 1-0 victory over Guyana, which advanced them to the final round of qualifying. Figueroa expressed confidence in his team’s progress. “I believe that Nicaragua has advanced much more than other selections in the last three years. Today, we are on par with many teams,” he stated.

The match will determine the top position in Group D, with both teams currently at nine points. Nicaragua leads with a goal difference of +8, while Panama has +6. “We come here quietly, without making much noise. Tomorrow’s noise will come from our play,” Figueroa concluded.

In contrast, Panama’s head coach, Thomas Christiansen, emphasized the team’s intention to win the game while providing playing time for various players ahead of the final qualifying stage in September. “I want to win tomorrow. I am trying to make the best team for victory, but my eyes are also on September,” Christiansen remarked.

Defender Michael Amir Murillo noted the preparation and importance of ending this round on a strong note. He acknowledged the fans’ support as a motivating factor. “We are representing all the people who come to see us and those watching from home,” Murillo said. The match between Nicaragua and Panama is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Rommel Fernández Stadium.