Thomas Christiansen, Panama's national team manager, prepares his squad for what analysts predict should be a straightforward victory against Belize in Sunday's North and Central American World Cup qualifier. Despite defensive concerns, "Panama" enters the match as clear favorites against a Belize side struggling to find form.
"We've analyzed our defensive shortcomings from recent matches and made necessary adjustments," Christiansen likely told his players during their final training session before departing for Belize.
The numbers tell a concerning story for both sides. "Panama" has conceded in all six of their previous matches, with opponents finding the net 17 times against them. Their most recent outing ended in defeat against Chile in an international friendly. Not exactly inspiring form heading into a crucial qualifier, is it?
Meanwhile, the home side "Belize" isn't faring any better. They're coming off a 1-0 defeat to Montserrat and have kept just one clean sheet in their last six matches, conceding 10 goals during that stretch. Their defensive frailties have been brutally exposed in recent outings.
Despite their own defensive issues, "Panama" possesses enough firepower to overcome the hosts. Prediction models suggest a comfortable 3-0 victory for the visitors, potentially even more if Belize's backline continues its generous tendency.
By the way, this match represents another step in the lengthy CONCACAF qualification process for the expanded 2026 World Cup. For "Belize", finding any positive result would be significant as they attempt to rebuild confidence. For "Panama", anything less than three points would be considered a major disappointment.
Will "Panama" capitalize on "Belize's" defensive weaknesses, or could the home side spring a surprise? Sunday's clash will provide all the answers.
