Mexico Wins 1-0 Over Panama, But Performance Raises World Cup Questions
Mexico opens its 2026 journey with a win, but not with answers and that is the story coming out of this tight 1–0 result against Panama.
On paper, a victory is a victory. Mexico gets the result, keeps a clean sheet and starts its World Cup preparation cycle on a positive note. But on the field, what unfolded was a match full of balance, patience and long stretches where very little actually happened in front of goal.
From the opening minutes, Mexico controlled possession. The ball stayed mostly at their feet. The tempo was measured. But control did not translate into danger. Clear chances were rare and Panama’s defensive structure held firm. They stayed compact, disciplined and calm, forcing Mexico to circulate the ball wide and settle for low-risk passes.
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Panama came in with a clear plan. Absorb pressure, stay organized and look for quick transitions. Those transitions did appear at moments, but they lacked the final touch to truly threaten. Still, their approach worked for most of the night. Mexico looked short on creativity in the final third, struggling to break lines or create space inside the box.
As the clock ticked toward full time, the match seemed headed for a scoreless draw. And then, in stoppage time, everything turned on a single moment. A defensive miscue by Panama resulted in an own goal at 90 plus three, handing Mexico the lead and ultimately the win. It was decisive, but it was not the kind of goal that settles doubts.
For Mexico, the takeaway is mixed. Defensively, there were positives. The back line stayed composed, limited risks and rarely looked exposed. But offensively, questions remain. Where does the spark come from. Who breaks open games when possession is not enough. These are issues that cannot be ignored with the 2026 World Cup approaching on home soil.
For Panama, despite the loss, this was a disciplined performance. They frustrated a regional giant and stayed competitive until the final seconds. It also extends their long wait for another win against Mexico, something they have not achieved since 2013, but the gap did not look wide on this night.
This match matters because preparation is not just about winning. It is about learning. Mexico leaves with three points, but also with clear areas to fix. Panama leaves without the result, but with proof that their structure can compete at a high level.
This road to 2026 is just beginning and the real tests are still ahead. Stay with us as we continue to track every step, every adjustment and every signal that points to what these teams are becoming.
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