Brazil Take On Panama in International Friendly: What to Expect, Bold Predictions, and Starting Lineups

Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil kicks off their pursuit of a sixth World Cup title on Sunday, taking on Panama in a farewell friendly at the iconic Maracanã Stadium ahead of the upcoming tournament.

Unlike previous editions, Brazil doesn't enter the 2026 World Cup as one of the outright favorites. Nevertheless, La Seleçao's squad boasts an impressive array of world-class talent, and it falls to Ancelotti — one of football's all-time great managers — to get the best out of them.

Brazil heads into this match on the back of a narrow loss to France and a convincing win over Croatia during the March international window. Ancelotti's men will be eager to build positive momentum before heading to North America.

Panama impressed throughout the Concacaf qualifying campaign, and under Thomas Christiansen's guidance, Los Canaleros have made considerable strides in recent years. They head into this summer looking to cause an upset, and a strong result against Brazil would be a major statement of intent.

With fewer than two weeks remaining before the 2026 World Cup gets underway, Brazil and Panama clash in hopes of heading into the tournament with confidence.

Brazil vs. Panama Score Prediction

La Seleçao Embarks To North America on a High

Ancelotti's 26-man squad is still missing several key players, particularly in defensive positions. Even so, La Seleçao's formidable attacking options offer plenty of firepower that could prove overwhelming for a limited Panamanian side.

The quality gap between the two sides is simply too wide to bridge, especially with several of Panama's key players dealing with fitness concerns. Playing at home in their World Cup send-off, Brazil should cruise to a comfortable win.

Score Prediction: Brazil 3–1 Panama

Brazil Prdicted Lineup vs. Panama

Ancelotti has essentially confirmed the starting XI he intends to field against Panama. Brazilian supporters will have to wait a little longer for Neymar Jr's international comeback, however, as the global superstar has picked up a calf injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for two to three weeks. Despite this setback, Ancelotti confirmed he remains part of the World Cup squad.

Brazil will be without their two first-choice center backs, as Marquinhos and Gabriel both featured on opposing sides in Saturday's Champions League final — the latter helping PSG claim back-to-back titles while Gabriel missed a crucial penalty for Arsenal. Léo Pereira and Bremer are set to partner in central defense.

In attack, Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Matheus Cunha and Zenit's Luiz Henrique will spearhead the forward line, with Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães providing the midfield foundation.

Alisson will take his place in goal as the Liverpool shot-stopper prepares to feature in his third World Cup.

Brazil predicted lineup vs. Panama (4-4-2): Alisson; Wesley, Pereira, Bremer, Sandro; Raphinha, Casemiro, Guimarães, Henrique; Cunha, Vini Jr.

Panama Predicted Lineup vs. Brazil

"It's going to be a wonderful evening," Christiansen said, expressing enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. The Spanish coach, however, faces a difficult task.

Godoy picked up a knock while on duty with San Diego FC, while Carrasquilla was carried off the pitch last weekend during the Liga MX final playing for Mexican club Pumas. Though both are expected to be fit for the World Cup, Panama will be without their preferred midfield pairing on Sunday.

Carlos Harvey is likely to be shifted into midfield from his usual center back role, with Cristian Martínez completing the pivot. The drop in quality, however, remains considerable.

Luis Mejía is also dealing with an injury at a critical moment as he competed for the starting goalkeeper spot, meaning expected World Cup starter Orlando Mosquera will take the gloves. The lively José Fajardo will lead the attack for Los Canaleros.

Panama predicted lineup vs. Brazil (3-4-2-1): Mosquera; Fariña, Escobar, Córdoba; Murillo, Harvey, Martínez, Davis; Bárcenas, Díaz; Fajardo

What Time Does Brazil vs. Panama Kick Off?

How to Watch Brazil vs. Panama on TV, Live Stream

Broadcast details for Brazil vs. Panama in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada and Mexico have yet to be confirmed.