India vs Panama: A chance for players to gain experience and direction as a footballing nation

BENGALURU: (Sep 24) The upcoming fortnight starting with an international friendly against world No. 44 Panama here on Friday will offer Indian players a chance to gain valuable experience and find a new direction as a footballing nation.

The match against Panama at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium is a precursor to contests against more storied opponents in five-time world champions Brazil (October 3) and two-time title winners Uruguay (October 6) at Kolkata.

Panama, a tiny nation with 4.65 million population, have achieved some tall feats on the football field. Apart from qualifying for the 2018 and 2026 FIFA World Cups, they have also finished runners-up in the CONCACAF Nations League 2024-25.