The highly anticipated clash between Panama and the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) is set to take place on Friday, June 28, 2024, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
This Group C encounter of the 2024 Copa America promises to be an exciting and crucial match for both teams as they vie for a spot in the knockout stage of the prestigious tournament.
Match Preview
Panama, led by head coach Thomas Christiansen, will be looking to bounce back from their opening match defeat against Uruguay.
Los Canaleros have a rich history in the Copa America, having participated in the tournament since 2016.
Despite their early exits in previous editions, Panama has shown their ability to compete against top teams in CONCACAF, as evidenced by their fourth-place finish in the 2023-24 CONCACAF Nations League.
The USMNT, under the guidance of Gregg Berhalter, enters this match as the favorites after a convincing 2-0 victory over Bolivia in their first game.
The Stars and Stripes are the hosts for this edition of the Copa America and are determined to make a strong showing on home soil.
With a talented squad featuring the likes of Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, and Tyler Adams, the USA will be aiming to secure their spot in the knockout stage as early as possible.
Panama suffered a 3-1 defeat against Uruguay in their opening match, with Michael Amir Murillo scoring a late consolation goal.
Prior to the tournament, Los Canaleros had mixed results, winning two of their last six matches against Guyana and Montserrat.
The USMNT, on the other hand, have been in good form, winning three of their last five matches.
Their 2-0 victory over Bolivia in the opening match was a solid start to their Copa America campaign, with Pulisic and Balogun finding the back of the net.
Head-to-Head
The USA and Panama have met 25 times in all competitions, with the Stars and Stripes holding a significant advantage with 16 wins.
Los Canaleros have managed 2 victories, while 7 matches have ended in draws.
The two teams last faced each other in the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinals, where Panama won on penalties after a 1-1 draw in extra time.
Prediction
Despite Panama’s recent success against the USMNT, the Stars and Stripes are expected to secure a comfortable victory in this match.
The USA’s youthful squad, led by the likes of Pulisic and Balogun, should have enough quality to overcome Panama’s defensive resilience.
While Los Canaleros have proven they can compete with top teams in CONCACAF, the intensity and attacking prowess of the USMNT may prove too much for them to handle for the full 90 minutes.
Betting Tips
Result: USA to win
Goals: Over 2.5 goals
Both teams to score: No
Anytime goalscorer: Christian Pulisic
The USA’s attacking firepower, combined with their defensive solidity, makes them a strong favorite to win this match.
While Panama will put up a fight, the Stars and Stripes should have enough quality to secure all three points and take a significant step towards securing their place in the Copa America 2024 knockout stage.
