Former Levski Defender After World Cup Participation: "I'm Happy, We Gave Our All"

Former Levski defender Jose Cordoba stated that the Panama national team leaves the 2026 World Cup with positive feelings, despite their 0-1 loss to England and subsequent elimination. He highlighted the team's sacrifice and the growth the Central American squad demonstrated throughout the tournament.

"Obviously, no one prepares for a match expecting to lose, but I am still very pleased with the sacrifice my teammates made," Cordoba commented.

The defender, who plays for Norwich City in England, acknowledged the superiority and higher level of English football development. However, he praised the Panamanian team's dedication against a world-class opponent. "We know they have phenomenal players. English football is far more developed, and we are a long way behind them. I know this because I experience it every day and understand the difference," he shared.

"We know they have phenomenal players. English football is far more developed, and we are a long way behind them. I know this because I experience it every day and understand the difference," he shared.

Despite the outcome, the player insisted that the team left a positive impression at the tournament. "I am very happy because my teammates gave their all. The team worked incredibly hard, and the difference was felt. I believe a good generation of players remains, and we will continue to grow and contribute significantly to the national team," he affirmed.

"I am very happy because my teammates gave their all. The team worked incredibly hard, and the difference was felt. I believe a good generation of players remains, and we will continue to grow and contribute significantly to the national team," he affirmed.

Cordoba also emphasized Panama's solid defensive play as one of the most positive aspects of their tournament participation.

"I think this is one of the elements we improved. We did a good job defensively. We need to improve in attack and be more effective in that part of the game, but the truth is, we leave with good feelings," the 25-year-old clarified.

Although they didn't achieve positive results in the tournament, the Panama national team received praise for their playing style, tactical discipline, and defensive strength, having conceded only four goals in the competition.

Panama bid farewell to the 2026 World Cup without earning any points in their three group stage matches and without scoring a single goal.