The USA will host Panama in a friendly match at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, as Mauricio Pochettino takes the reins as the new manager of the national team. Both teams are looking to build momentum ahead of their upcoming competitions, but they come into the match with contrasting recent experiences.
Match Preview
USA: The American side is in a period of transition following a disappointing Copa America campaign, which led to the departure of former coach Gregg Berhalter. Pochettino’s appointment brings renewed hope, but the Yanks are winless in their last four matches, with their last victory coming against Mexico in the Nations League final back in March. They played to a 1-1 draw against New Zealand last month, with Christian Pulisic scoring the team’s only goal. Despite struggling to find form, the USA has a strong record at Q2 Stadium, having won all four international matches there without conceding a goal.
Panama: On the other hand, Panama is coming off a difficult 5-0 loss to Colombia in the Copa America quarter-finals. However, they had previously shown promise by making it to the knockout stage of a non-CONCACAF tournament for the first time. They have two wins in their last three matches across competitions and a solid record against CONCACAF opponents recently. Panama’s victories in World Cup qualifiers show that they are competitive, having won both matches by a combined score of 5-1.
Team News
- USA: Pochettino will have to adjust his lineup due to injuries to Folarin Balogun, Johnny Cardoso, and Tim Weah. He has called up Tanner Tessmann, Brandon Vazquez, and Alejandro Zendejas as replacements. Key players like Pulisic, who is moving up the all-time scoring list for the national team, will be crucial for the USA’s attacking efforts.
- Panama: Coach Thomas Christiansen has named a squad that includes experienced players like Anibal Godoy, while Adalberto Carrasquilla is set to earn his 60th cap. The lineup will feature young talents and seasoned internationals, aiming to bounce back from their recent heavy defeat.
Predicted Lineups
- USA (4-3-3):
- Schulte; Fossey, McKenzie, Robinson (M.), Robinson (A.); McKennie, Musah, Aaronson; Pulisic, Vazquez, Wright
- Panama (4-2-3-1):
- Mosquera; Murillo, Miller, Cordoba, Escobar, Davis; Blackman, Godoy, Carrasquilla; Barcenas; Fajardo
Prediction
With the excitement surrounding Pochettino’s first match and the home advantage at Q2 Stadium, the USA will look to establish dominance early in the game. Although Panama has had recent successes, the Americans are likely to emerge victorious, especially if Pulisic and the other talented youngsters perform well.
Predicted score: USA 2-1 Panama.
