Panama 1-1 (3-5) New Zealand Player Ratings: Herbert's Equalizer Cancelled Out Stamenić's Opener To Earn Panama Their Second Draw In A Row Before Losing Out On Penalties

The Kirin Cup Soccer 2026 commenced in Japan with a fixture between Panama and New Zealand, with both teams aiming to reach the finals of the friendly tournament, where they would face the winners of Japan vs Ecuador.

The Panama national football team were the better of the two teams in the first half, maintaining 64% possession with two shots on target. However, it was the All Whites who drew the first blood, as a lovely ball over the top was played for Ben Waine, who took a touch before laying it off for Marko Stamenić to tap in an empty net in the 13th minute.

What was more surprising is that this was the only shot on target for the New Zealand national football team, who were being outplayed totally. Nevertheless, Panama got their equalizer through Giovany Herbert just before the halftime whistle, restoring parity in the game.

New Zealand did improve their gameplay in the second half, but were unable to unlock Panama's defence once again. They looked to hit them on the counter, while Panama continued to play with the ball, trying to break open the spaces in between the All Whites' defence.

Both teams failed to have a shot on target in the second half, which pretty much summed up their second-half performance. The game ended 1-1 and headed straight into a penalty shootout, where the All Whites dispatched all their spot kicks, and Mijahir Jiménez missed for Panama, helping New Zealand reach the final of the Kirin Cup.

Check out the Panama vs New Zealand Player Ratings.

Panama National Football Team Player Ratings vs New Zealand

Take a look at the Panama national football team player ratings from the Panama vs New Zealand Player Ratings.

New Zealand National Football Team Player Ratings vs Panama

Here are the New Zealand national football team player ratings from the Panama vs New Zealand Player Ratings.

Man of the Match

Marko Stamenić was the best player from Panama vs New Zealand.

Worst Performer

Chris Wood was the worst performer in this Kirin Cup Soccer 2026 match.