El Tri will have the opportunity to enhance their recently faltered image when they play against Panama on July 9 in what will be their second match in the Gold Cup tournament. The battle will be this: Strong & Weak Panama v Old & Young Mexico
A 1-0 hard-fought victory over Guatemala in January sent Panama through to the Gold Cup tournament. Los Canaleros had to play the entire second half with ten men, but still managed to overcome the challenge.
Between 2003 and 1991, Panama failed to enter or to qualify to the Gold Cup tournament six times in seven editions.
But recently, Los Canaleros have proven to be a dangerous side. In 2005, they cruised to victory against South Africa and Colombia as they reached the final of the tournament.
Unfortunately for Panama, misfortune saw them squander chances after chances in normal and extra time. They miserably lost 3-1 on penalties for the USA to claim victory at the end of it all.
In 2007, they only finished as quarterfinalists; can they go one better this year?
This goal suggests that Panama have to perform in the group stages. Playing against Mexico certainly doesn’t look like an easy task. Panama’s defense will need to be tight if they want to contain Javier Aguirre’s men. 
The Mexicans have shown that goals can come from anywhere and anyone. Statistics underline this fact: Mexico’s last 15 goals were scored by 13 different players. Comparisons also show that this year when Mexico score at least two goals in a match, they go on to win the game. Meanwhile, Panama have lost all of their games between May and the end of June.
Well, the Mexican national team look rejuvenated with the inclusion of young players Giovanni Dos Santos and Carlos Vela. Javier Aguirre’s mixture of experience and youth will surely pose a big threat to Panama.
However, if Los Canaleros can emulate the wonders they made four years ago, then they might go on to beat the Mexicans as they managed to upset Colombia 1-0 in their opening game of the 2005 Gold Cup tournament.
