Brazil defeats Panama 6-2 in pre-World Cup friendly

Brazil achieved a convincing 6-2 victory over Panama in a pre-World Cup friendly match held at the Maracanã Stadium. The Central American team, who are set to face Ghana in their opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 17 in Toronto, struggled to keep pace with the five-time world champions.

The match began with Brazil taking an early lead when Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jnr scored a long-range goal. Panama managed to equalize after 12 minutes through a deflected freekick, which ended up hitting Manchester United player Matheus Cunha. However, Brazil quickly regained the lead when Casemiro, another Manchester United star, headed in from a cross delivered by Vinicius Jnr.

Brazil extended their lead when a mistake from Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera presented Rayan with an opportunity to score, followed by a long-distance goal from Lucas Paquetá. Brentford's Igor Thiago converted a penalty to make it 5-1, before Danilo added a sixth goal for Brazil with just ten minutes remaining. Panama's Carlos Harvey managed to score a consolation goal in the 83rd minute, reducing the final score to 6-2.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars of Ghana are preparing for their own international friendly against Wales on June 2nd. Ghana's Coach Carlos Queiroz is scheduled to announce his squad on Monday in Wales, while he addresses the media regarding his selection. Following their opening match against Panama in Canada, Ghana will move on to play England in Boston and Croatia in Philadelphia.