Just when all signs pointed to the United States leaving Kingston with only a point, Brad Evans came to the rescue late in the match. When Michael Bradley prepared to take on a Jamaican defender off a short corner kick, it did not look promising, but somehow, the ball fell to Evans who guided the ball into the net, putting the USMNT even on seven points at the top of the group.
Although that victory brought some confidence to the team, the American's also left Kingston with two injuries.
Midfielder Graham Zusi picked up a yellow card, forcing him out of the match due to suspension. His absence may give Joe Corona an opportunity to feature in the starting XI, but another option could be Eddie Johnson, who Klinsmann has used out wide on occasion.
Another absence for the red, white and blue will be Jermaine Jones. The Schalke midfielder will be out with a concussion picked up against Jamaica.
Despite their injuries, the United States defenders will be breathing a sigh of relief knowing that Panama's Blas Perez did not travel with the team due to Gastroenteritis. His likely replacement could be Rolando Blackburn, who many critics believe to be a downgrade.
Whether it is a downgrade or not, Klinsmann's defenders will have to be on their toes, knowing that they have conceded eight goals in their last three matches. Going up against a side like Panama who has yet to lose in this Hexagonal will be a good test.
"Every game is difficult," Klinsmann told reporters in Kingston after his side defeated Jamaica 1-2.
"Panama will be very difficult in Seattle. We'll need big support from the fans and need total commitment in every one of these games. I think our team is good enough and has enough quality to qualify for the World Cup, but we have to be ready for the battle, ready for different circumstances and places."
Seattle may be a new place for some, but what will be different at Century Link Field will be the turf. The Sounders normally play on artificial turf, but for this match, they decided to lay down grass over the turf. Although it is not the greatest surface to play on, US left back Demarcus Beasley prefers it over artificial turf.
"It does not look great," said Beasley when asked about how the temporary turf looked. "I think it will play alright. It is obviously not the best or the same as regular grass, but I would 100 percent rather play on this than artificial turf."
On grass or turf, the US will be up against a tough test. Despite Panama's one win and three draws, the are one point behind the Americans, putting some pressure on Klinsmann's side.
A victory for the US would really help separate them from the rest of the pack, and of course, lets also not forget the importance of winning qualification matches at home.
If Klinsmann's side wants to really send a message to the rest of their opponents, a victory on Tuesday would really go a long way. Between them and the full three points stands an undefeated Panama side that has a very good opportunity to qualify for the first World Cup in their nation's history.
Prediction
USA 1-1 Panama
