Copa America 2024: after an easy win over Bolivia, the USA takes on Panama

After securing an easy win over Bolivia in the 2024 Copa America soccer tournament, the United States men’s team hopes to qualify for the quarter-finals if they win over Panama on Thursday. This Group C match brings together two familiar CONCACAF opponents, with USA standing second in the group, while Panama is third following their defeat by Uruguay.

Panama will have an uphill task facing the hosts, the USA, and will be eliminated from the Copa America tournament if they fail to secure any points. Meanwhile, the US is hoping to secure a top-two spot before their last group-stage game against Uruguay. But can a youthful United States men’s team record two consecutive wins or will Panama stop them given the trouble they have given them in the past?

Panama vs USA match preview and predictions

The USMT started their 2024 Copa America campaign by beating Bolivia 2-0 to secure three points. Arguably, they should have scored two more goals if not for the close offside call and Pepi missing two clear opportunities in front of the goal. However, their fans should be impressed with the team’s performance as they stand a chance to qualify for the quarter-finals and finish their group in the top two.

The United States' victory over Bolivia ended their run of two consecutive games without a win as their warm-up friendlies before the tournament kickoff didn’t go as planned. However, they head into their game against Panama full of confidence and we predict the USA will win the game to nil.

A win for the United States will eliminate Panama from the competition after facing a 3-1 defeat against Uruguay in their opening game. The Panamanians weren’t expected to get anything from their fixture against Uruguay, so their fans shouldn’t be too disheartened. However, Panama might prove a little challenging for the United States to break down as they were able to hold the fort against Uruguay for 85 minutes on Sunday.

Panama vs USA team analysis

The United States team features a youthful talent, with only two players in their squad being above 30 years. Their youthful talent was on full display in their last game as they came flying to score in three minutes.

Coach Gregg Berhalter will most likely hesitate to make significant changes in the team that displayed an excellent performance over Bolivia. AC Milan midfielder Yunus Dimoara Musah will hope to start after replacing Tyler Adams during their previous match. The Americans will also feature Monaco’s star forward Folarin Balogun on the attack, with Timothy Weah playing on the right to complete the front three in their 4-3-3 formation.

Likewise, Panama’s manager Thomas Christiansen isn’t expected to make any significant changes in his team. The Spaniard might choose a 5-4-1 formation similar to what they used against Uruguay, hoping to frustrate USMT’s talented attacking corps. Adalberto Carrasquilla will be the man to watch on this side, as his performance is crucial if Panama is to draw or win this fixture. However, we predict the USA will secure a win at half-time and full-time.