It was against the same country that Panama were denied the trophy some years ago. After 120 barren minutes characterized by a multitude of squandered chances, Panama and the USA had to sort things out with spot kicks. An awful performance in the penalty shootouts, where two kicks went wide while another was saved – cost Panama a 3-1 defeat to the USA. In the end, Panama had to be content with silver medals whereas the United States of America were crowned champions of the CONCACAF region for yet another time.
Will there be a repeat of history – this time, at the quarterfinal stage?
The interesting side of Panama
Panama opened their account with a defeat to Guadeloupe. However, that result did not bring their shoulders down. Against Mexico, they succumbed to an early goal as they were caught on the counter-attack. But they restored the deficit with an equalizer in the first period. The score line remained the same at the end of proceedings, but in all, one could say that it was a brave performance from the squad as they managed to hold off Mexico to earn a precious point. It was only the flashing of two red cards that somewhat tarnished this wonderful achievement.
All the same, Panama entered the third round of the Gold Cup with the aim of restoring their negative goal difference in order to enhance their chances of reaching the second stage of the competition. Indeed, Panama gave winless Nicaragua their worse loss of the tournament. Mexico and Guadeloupe had both beaten Nicaragua by less than a three-goal margin. Well, Panama defeated them 4-0 en route to the quarter finals of the Gold Cup.
The interesting side of Panama shows the team’s determination to go two steps forward when they’ve gone one step back. Panama’s mentality is strong; ousting the USA will just prove how steady their spirit has become.
Panama’s draw against Mexico could be an inspiration to the players ahead of the big clash that is against the USA. Unless Panama decide to concede defeat before the start of the match, the battle promises to be a tough one. Certainly, it takes a lot to crack down champions. Do Panama possess the secret key to open the door that leads to victory?
The strength of the USA
For Bob Bradley and his men, this quarterfinal game will be another moment for the USA to test themselves. Avoiding complacency is an obligation, while dominating on the field is another task. The Yankees are known for their compact style of play at the back, their flow in every part of the field, and their confidence in front of goal.
A 2-2 draw against Haiti in the third round of the Gold Cup spoiled their 100% record in this tournament. However, the manner in which they clinched that point surely presented more positives than negatives. In the first place, many first-team regulars were absent. Secondly, the USA were just a few minutes away from a rare defeat when they snatched a late equalizer.
This explains that Bob Bradley’s squad doesn’t only consist of eleven good starters, but also of a wide range of qualified substitutes that are capable to fill any hole. It will be up to Coach Bob Bradley to combine talent with tactics in a wise manner as he has done so many times.
The contest ahead of the encounter seems tight. Could we see a one-sided affair on the pitch?
