Preview: Pressure piled up on Mexico’s victims, Panama
Panama are still longing to participate in their first ever World Cup. It would be cruel for Los Canaleros to miss out on Brazil 2014 after getting so close. Last Friday, the Estadio Azteca became the stage of a dramatic 90-minute football match scenario.
The hosts were under immense pressure to get maximum points. An opening goal from Peralta put Panama behind at half-time but when Tejada equalized with nine minutes of normal time to go, the visitors thought they would quit Mexico with something in the bag.
However this hope was dashed with new national hero Raul Jimenez scoring an incredible bicycle kick goal in the 85th minute. Ectasy for El Tri, disappointment for Los Canaleros who now have to beat USA at all cost this Tuesday.
The task ahead is extremely difficult, knowing how good Jurgen Klinsmann’s squad is. In addition, Panama must rely on already-qualified Costa Rica beating the Mexicans in San Jose.
The good news for Tuesday’s home side is that Jermaine Jones (knee), Landon Donovan (ankle) and goalkeeper Tim Howard are part of the crop of players that will not feature according to the USMNT rotation system and injury concerns. The man in post will be English Premier League-based goalkeeper Brad Guzan. Manager Jurgen Klinsmann confirmed:
“Brad Guzan has earned the opportunity to start against Panama. He has been outstanding for Aston Villa all year, and he has been huge in the games he has played for us in World Cup Qualifying.
“As I said before, we have one of the best situations in the world when it comes to our goalkeepers.”
Can Panama lower the Americans’ confidence in defence by scoring past Guzan and possibly earn a CONCACAF World Cup qualifying play-off ticket to face New Zealand in November?
Where to watch the match – live stream, start time, TV channels, live scores
Watch Panama vs USA live on Tuesday, October 15, 2013:
In Canada at 21:30 ET on: beIN Sport Play Canada
In USA at 21:30 ET on: beIN Sport Play, SiriusXM FC, beIN Sport USA
Visit the Panama-USA match page for worldwide live streaming and TV listings. For live scores of this crucial World Cup qualifier, stay tuned to LiveSoccerTV.
