---
title: "Panama to Play South Africa in March Friendlies; Córdoba Sees a Glimpse of Ghana"
date: 2026-03-25
author: ""
url: https://panamadaily.news/2026/03/25/panama-vs-south-africa-friendlies-5/
categories:
  - "Sports"
tags:
  - "friendlies"
  - "José Córdoba"
  - "Panama national team"
  - "South Africa"
  - "World Cup"
---

# Panama to Play South Africa in March Friendlies; Córdoba Sees a Glimpse of Ghana

## What Happened

Panama will play two international friendly matches against South Africa on March 27 and March 31. Broadcast coverage is scheduled on TVN, TVMAX, TVN Pass and the TVMAX PANAMÁ YouTube channel at 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m., respectively, TVN reported. The story headline highlighted José Córdoba’s view that the South Africa games will offer an idea of what Ghana may present at the World Cup.

## Context

International friendlies are a regular part of national-team preparation, giving coaches and players a chance to test tactics, assess form and build cohesion under match conditions. Panama’s matches against South Africa arrive in that context, positioned as opportunities to measure the team against strong, unfamiliar opposition.

## Broadcast and How to Watch

Fans in Panama can follow both matches live. TVN and TVMAX will carry the broadcasts, and digital viewers can stream via TVN Pass or the TVMAX PANAMÁ YouTube channel. The first game on March 27 starts at 12:00 p.m.; the second on March 31 begins at 12:30 p.m., according to the TVN notice.

## What This Means

According to the coverage, José Córdoba framed the friendlies as a useful test: South Africa’s style and level of play should give Panama an idea of what Ghana will be like at the World Cup. While specifics about line-ups, tactics or team selection were not detailed in the report, the matches should help Panama’s staff evaluate player combinations and tactical approaches under competitive conditions.

For supporters, the fixtures are also a chance to see the national side in action and for players to stake a claim for selection in future competitive rosters. Broad national coverage via television and online streaming ensures the games will be accessible to a wide Panamanian audience.