Nicaragua can make their presence felt in Panama tussle

From 11.30pm

Pre-tournament favourites USA slipped up in their Concacaf Group B opener – held to a 1-1 draw by Panama – but the experienced hosts are unlikely to make the same mistake twice and should brush aside minnows Martinique.

Panama were always likely to be USA’s toughest group opponents and although the favourites had to settle for a draw, it may well be a point gained rather than two dropped.

Martinique defeated Nicaragua 2-0 in their curtain-raiser but they have won just three of their 12 matches in Gold Cups and lack the hosts’ firepower.

However, the best best in Wednesday evening’s action may come when Panama face Nicaragua.

Panama are 1-3 to clinch all three points but they are winless in five matches and there’s hope for the outsiders – who had 54 per cent possession and tied the shot count 12-12 in their upset to Martinique.

They are steadily improving under Costa Rican head coach Henry Duarte and they have scored in four of their last five meetings with Panama.

Hernan Gomez’s troops should find a way to win but they look pretty short and both teams to score is a safer alternative. Panama have shipped in four their last five outings and may do so again.

Recommendation
Both teams to score in Panama v Nicaragua
1pt 6-4 bet365

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