Ghana’s key searched fact is Mohammed Kudus missing the tournament with a quad injury setback, a major blow to ball-carrying and final-third creativity. Panama’s searches emphasize Thomas Christiansen’s experienced squad and captain Anibal Godoy, with more than 150 caps, but this remains one of the lighter rosters in the group. Tactical read: Ghana should have more athleticism and transition threat, though less incision without Kudus; Panama will likely sit compact, rely on set pieces, Godoy’s organization and counters. Neutral-site opening pressure makes this closer than talent alone suggests.

Ghana arrive in poor form, having lost four of their last five matches before a recent 1-1 draw with Wales. Now managed by Carlos Queiroz, the Black Stars are missing key defender Tariq Lamptey due to an ACL injury, though Iñaki Williams and Jordan Ayew provide attacking threat. Panama, led by Thomas Christiansen, topped their CONCACAF qualifying group unbeaten but showed defensive vulnerabilities in a recent 6-2 friendly defeat to Brazil. Captained by Aníbal Godoy, Los Canaleros rely on the physicality of Cecilio Waterman and the pace of Ismael Díaz. This is a tightly contested match; Ghana's tactical discipline under Queiroz will be tested by Panama's direct, transition-based attacks.

GHA (Queiroz) key Semenyo/Partey; Kudus/Salisu injured out. PAN (Christiansen) Waterman/Murillo; recent friendlies mixed (draw BIH, win vs weak sides). GHA edge physicality/pace vs PAN organized defense. GHA home advantage slight.