"We are a well-oiled machine"- Panama captain fires warning to Ghana and group opponents

Panama captain Anibal Godoy insists the Central American nation will not be pushovers at the World Cup in North America. 

Considered as one of the minnows at the upcoming tournament, Panama will be making their second appearance at the World Cup in July and July.

The 2018 World Cup debutants have been drawn in Group I alongside 1966 winners England, four-time African champions Ghana and 2018 runners-up Croatia.

"First, that they are great people. Then, that they are quality players. In this team, good players come and go. Tactics-wise, we are a well-oiled machine. This team is prepared to compete and I hope we can make history at this World Cup," he told FIFA.

Godoy played a huge role at the World Cup in 2018 and will be leading the team again in 2026.

According to the San Diego FC midfielder, he learnt a lot from his previous experience and he is ready to make a significant contribution to his country at the World Cup.

"I learned a lot. At an individual level, I learnt to be more patient. I learnt to be more cautious. You play on the pitch at a different pace with elite players. Players who train every day as part of an elite. Players who play every weekend as part of an elite. You must be more mentally prepared. Physically, actually. Handling those emotions and that scenario requires a lot of calm," he added.

Panama will face Ghana in their opening game in Montreal on June 17.