Panama vs Mexico: Match Preview and Prediction

Panama vs Mexico
CONCACAF 2018 World Cup Qualifiers – 5th Round.
Date: Wednesday, 16th November 2016.
Kick-off at 2:05 am UK,
Venue: Estadio Rommel Fernandez, Panama City.

Panama have certainly put themselves in a strong position after grabbing a 1-0 away win at Honduras in their first fixture in the fifth round of the World Cup qualifiers. Since three from the six teams in CONCACAF zone can automatically qualify for 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and the fourth place have a chance to go into the intercontinental play-off.

Mexico, Costa Rica and USA are firm favourites to finish inside the top three, while Panama, Honduras and Trinidad and Tobago will fight for the play-off spot as well as an outside chance to upset one of the top three.

In their first fixture of the round, Mexico had let it late to defeat USA away from home by a 2-1 margin. This was their first ever visit in the States in the 8 visits for a qualifying fixtures. The result have put them in a strong position to boss the zonal table once again. Mexico alongside Costa Rica are the only two sides in the CONCACAF qualifiers who are unbeaten in the 7 fixtures since fourth round.

Panama vs Mexico: Head-to-Head Stats

The teams recently met in a friendly a months ago, on 12th October at Panama and Mexico edged a narrow 1-0 win aided by a second half goal from the veteran striker Oribe Peralta. This was Mexico’s sixth straight win against Panama in all competitions.

Panama were able to hold Mexico to draws in the last two World Cup qualifying fixtures at home. However they are win-less in the last three as Mexico edged a 1-0 win in their visit on 2000.

Panama vs Mexico: Predictions

The Mexicans are a true powerhouse in the zone and on current form they are tipped as heavy favourites by many bookmakers. But we believe Panama are a team in good spirits. One of the major factor to consider is their ability to frustrate sides with their well-organized defense. They also have some skill full players in the attack who are handy in counter attacking situations. Mexico in such a fine form could eventually get their win, but this won’t be easy.