Panama coach Thomas Christiansen praised his side’s resilience after a 2-1 victory over South Africa in Cape Town, a morale-boosting result ahead of June’s FIFA World Cup.
The win followed a 1-1 draw in Durban last Friday, with Christiansen noting sharper execution after travel fatigue had hampered their first outing. “It’s always important to win for mentality and belief,” he said.
Drawn against Croatia, England and Ghana, Panama welcomed the chance to test themselves against African opposition. “It’s the first time we’re winning against an African team, and that’s not easy,” Christiansen added.
South Africa equalized with a spectacular strike, but Panama showed composure to reclaim the lead. For Christiansen, the improved pressing and defensive discipline were signs his team is “going in the right direction.”
