San Diego FC midfielder Aníbal Godoy was named to Panama's 26-player roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup [1].
The selection highlights the growing international influence of San Diego FC and establishes Godoy as a central figure in Panama's tactical approach for the tournament.
Panama announced the official squad on May 26, 2026 [2]. The roster includes 26 players [1] selected to compete on the global stage. Godoy's inclusion comes after a series of strong performances with his club side and his established role in the national team's midfield.
Godoy is one of two San Diego FC players selected for World Cup rosters, joining teammate CJ dos Santos [3]. The presence of multiple club players on the international stage provides the team with existing chemistry, and professional cohesion.
"I am honored to represent Panama on the world stage and to do it alongside my San Diego FC teammates," Godoy said [1].
Panama coach Thomas Christiansen emphasized the midfielder's technical contributions to the team. "Godoy’s vision and work rate make him an essential part of our squad," Christiansen said [4].
The selection process for the squad focused on players capable of maintaining high intensity throughout the tournament. Godoy's ability to control the pace of the game in the midfield was a primary factor in his selection [4].
As Panama prepares for the tournament, the team relies on a blend of veteran experience and current form from players competing in major leagues like MLS [1].
“"Godoy’s vision and work rate make him an essential part of our squad,"”
The inclusion of Aníbal Godoy and CJ dos Santos on World Cup rosters signals that San Diego FC is successfully recruiting and developing talent capable of competing at the highest international level. For Panama, securing a consistent midfield anchor with MLS experience provides the tactical stability needed to navigate the group stages of the 2026 tournament.
