Toll Free: 1-888-759-2665Backup: 1-888-740-1958 

CONCACAF Gold Cup features mach between US vs. Panama

The US vs. Panama match should provide plenty of entertainment as both teams vie for the victory and the right to advance in the Gold Cup. The United States took care of business at Ford Field in Detroit on Tuesday by beating Canada 2-0 . The victory sets up an opportunity to take complete control of Group C with a win over Panama tonight at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. Make no mistake, the U.S. is expected to dispose of Panama, take care of Guadeloupe in the final Group C match and move on to the quarterfinals where the competition really begins. Although that is easier said than done. The U.S. and Panama have played in each of the last three Gold Cups. In 2005, the Yanks were held to a 0-0 draw before winning the final 3-1 in a penalty shoot-out. In 2007, the United States won the quarterfinal matchup 2-1 behind goals from Landon Donovan and Carlos Bocanegra. In 2009, playing with it's B team the Yanks once again beat Panama in the quarterfinals 2-1 however it took an extra time penalty goal by Kenny Cooper to get it done. History shows Panama to be a tough game for the United States, so should we expect anything different? The United States will need to improve on two key areas as we move through the tournament. The first is creating more quality goal scoring chances. This is nothing new to the U.S. who has had problems scoring goals seemingly forever. This will not be an easy task against Panama who will no doubt bunker down and keep plenty of players behind the ball. A point earned by Panama will put plenty of pressure on Canada who is expected to be the second team to advance out of Group C. The second area of concern is the defense. Tim Ream and Clarence Goodson do not have a ton of experience at this level which was on display late against Canada, who had two quality scoring chances snuffed out by Tim Howard. The U.S. did a poor job of finishing the game against the Canucks, and will need to keep their shape and maintain possession with the lead, should they get it against Panama. This game will be closer than most experts think, with the US pulling out a close victory. Play on US Soccer