The former Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimović, who shone in clubs such as Barcelona, Inter, Juventus, PSG and Milan, was once again a protagonist off the pitch.
Recognized as one of the best footballers of the century for his scoring ability and his unmistakable style, Ibrahimović has also been characterized by his controversial statements. On this occasion, the target of his words was the Panama team, which will play its second World Cup in history.
With his usual charisma and direct tone, Ibrahimović analyzed Group L of the World Cup being held in the United States, Mexico and Canada, where England, Croatia, Ghana and Panama are competing. The Swede did not hesitate to point out the favorites and mark distance from the level of the Canal team.
“We have England. Will he come home? We’ll see. We have Croatia. I also have Croatian roots, so I support them in this tournament. We have Ghana. They are very talented; We will see what they have in store for us. We have Panama. “Unfortunately, in this group, I think they will be the punching bag,” expressed Ibrahimović.
The former Swedish international stressed that England and Croatia are the main candidates to win the two tickets for the round of 16, while Ghana could complicate their path. Panama, on the other hand, was ruled out by the striker.
“England and Croatia will fight for first place, and Ghana could score some points. But I don’t see Panama,” he said.
The Panamanian team will debut next Wednesday, June 17 against Ghana, in a duel that will mark its debut in this second World Cup participation. The outlook in Group L seems complicated, since the Canaleros will have to face rivals with more international experience.
For Zlatan, Panama will be a punching bag in Group L of the World Cup.
Well, even a football legend will have to keep his mouth shut. pic.twitter.com/uRDx95A6CP
— 𝗞𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮 (@kristtianc) June 12, 2026
Even so, the illusion of Panama remains intact. The challenge will be to demonstrate on the field that he can compete and surprise, despite the opinions of international figures like Ibrahimović.
Beyond the Swede’s words, the team led by Thomas Christiansen has prepared intensively and is confident that the combination of youth and experience will pay off.