Preview of Panama vs. Mexico: prediction, team news, lineups

Panama and Mexico will compete in the CONCACAF Nations League playoff match.

Panama will face off against Mexico in the third-place CONCACAF Nations League playoff match on Sunday at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada. This will be Panama's chance to claim their first medal on the continental stage since 2015. Despite their 2-0 defeat to Canada in the first semi-final, Panama has shown significant growth and improvement in this year's competition. Under the guidance of coach Thomas Christiansen, the team has become more resilient and well-organized defensively. They have also displayed an aggressive style of play, not shying away from challenges to disrupt the opposition. Panama's last victory against Mexico on the international stage was in 2013, and they will be looking to replicate that success in this match.

On the other hand, Mexico is experiencing a period of struggle, having gone over four years without winning a continental trophy. They failed to advance to the round of 16 at the World Cup in Qatar and have not been as dominant in CONCACAF as they have been in the past. Mexico had a tough time in the group phase of the Nations League, having to come from behind on two occasions to secure draws. Their defeat to the United States in the semi-final was their first match without scoring a goal since April 2022. Despite these challenges, Mexico has a rich history in the region and will be determined to claim the bronze medal in this competition.

In terms of team news, Panama will be without Eric Davis due to suspension, while Mexico will be missing Cesar Montes and Gerardo Arteaga. Panama's Yoel Barcenas and Cecilio Waterman have been key contributors in the Nations League, while Mexico's Edson Alvarez and Raul Jimenez have also made significant impacts. Overall, Mexico's experience and track record against Panama give them the edge in this match.

In conclusion, Panama and Mexico will battle it out for the bronze medal in the CONCACAF Nations League. Panama will be looking to claim their first medal since 2015, while Mexico aims to end their trophy drought. Despite Panama's growth and improvement, Mexico's experience and past success make them the favorites in this match. It promises to be an exciting and competitive encounter between these two teams.