As the 2024 Copa America heats up, the upcoming clash between Bolivia and Panama on Monday at Orlando's Inter & Co Stadium is set to be a crucial match for both teams.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the form, team news, and predictions for this decisive encounter.
Match Preview
Current Form
Bolivia comes into this game in a challenging position. They have suffered a demoralizing 5-0 defeat against Uruguay, which leaves them at the bottom of Group C with no points. Bolivia is currently on a 13-match losing streak in Copa America group fixtures, a run that stretches back to 2015.
Their inability to score has been a significant issue, with six goalless matches in their current slump. If they fail to find the net against Panama, it will be the first time since 2001 that Bolivia concludes the group phase without scoring a goal.
On the other hand, Panama secured a vital 2-1 victory over the United States, keeping their knockout stage hopes alive. This win was their first at this Copa America and ended a two-match losing streak.
Panama's impressive 74% possession against the USA was the highest by any CONCACAF team in the tournament since 2011, indicating a strong midfield presence.
Head-to-Head
Historically, Panama has the upper hand in this fixture, winning four consecutive matches against Bolivia, including a 2-1 victory in their only previous Copa America meeting in 2016.
Team News
Bolivia
Coach Antonio Carlos Zago made six changes in their last match, introducing Hector Cuellar, Yomar Rocha, Boris Cespedes, Miguel Terceros, Carmelo Algaranaz, and Ramiro Vaca into the starting lineup.
Adalid Terrazas made his international debut recently, with Gustavo Almada remaining the only uncapped player in the squad.
Panama
Panama will be without their key playmaker Adalberto Carrasquilla, who received a red card for a reckless challenge.
Despite this setback, Panama's squad remains strong with Cesar Blackman and Jose Fajardo both contributing significantly in their last match.
Blackman scored his first international goal while Fajardo secured the winner, marking his 12th goal for Los Canaleros.
Prediction
Given Bolivia's dire form and Panama's recent resurgence, Panama is favoured to win this match.
Despite missing Carrasquilla, Panama's depth and quality in attack should be sufficient to overcome a beleaguered Bolivian defence.
Bolivia 
Panama 
