Panama's president proud of his nation's team

The Panamanian head of state has revealed that he is very proud of watching his nation's team play on Monday, and thinks that their most difficult game is out of the way despite facing England in their next game. 

Vela, who has held power in the country since 2014, thanked the national team's players for giving him the opportunity to attend an event in Moscow with Russian president Vladmir Putin, spending two hours next to the Russian while watching the opera.

“When I saw our flag come out with the other 32 in Moscow, it was very emotional. And when I had the chance to go to listen to the opera alongside President Putin…"

“It wasn’t the president sitting alongside Putin, it was the players because I was representing them. I told them: ‘I didn’t do anything to be sitting there; it was you." he told the 'Guardian'.

The country's football hit the headlines for the wrong reasons last year, as their international midfielder Amilcar Henriquez was shot and killed outside his home.

“[Henriquez’s death] was a was a very sad moment for us and it left a scar. But these players are an example for the kids in the barrio. The problem is poor leadership, bad examples, economics. But when they see these lads, that creates a model to follow. We can all help, everyone in their field: them on the pitch, me with the country’s security.”

Despite the nation's somewhat dark past, the president is confident that an appearance at this summer's tournament in Russia will help to turn his country's reputation around.

“Being in Russia is a great honour and it positions Panama: the entire planet sees Panamanian players against England and Belgium,”

“Imagine it in marketing terms: you begin with the premise that what matters is that they know your name, then that they have a good impression of you, then maybe they decide to visit the country, look for a product. Panama can be heard, known, and project itself through sport.”

Vela took the time to watch England's match with the Panama players after their loss to Belgium, and is optimistic about their chances against the Three Lions.

The central American nation take on Gareth Southgate's men on Sunday afternoon.