Panama's performance in this Copa America 2024 certainly isn't one for the scrapbook. They've been taking leaves out of the 'Win Ugly' bible, as demonstrated in their last three matches. Even against comparatively weaker teams, like Bolivia, they weren't exactly painting the Mona Lisa, were they?
Most nights, Orlando Mosquera has been the lone ranger, single-handedly preventing the team from galloping off a cliff. With barely satisfactory saves and a rating of 6.63, he's keeping Panama in the conversation, but his defense might be helping him draft those resignation letters.
As for their top players, Cesar Blackman and José Fajardo are the gourmet chefs – tossing goals into the cauldron like flavorful ingredients. But the Panamanian recipe seems to lack that zing to make it a treat for the taste buds. Yoel Bárcenas meanwhile, with zero shots on goal and a 7.17 rating, has been putting on his apron but forgetting to do the cooking.
Across the field is Colombia, looking like bespoke suits in a thrift store. James Rodríguez has been runways ahead of the rest, firing 3 shots on goal and garnering an impressive 8.23 rating. He's been the caviar on toast, but he's had Daniel Munoz, Davinson Sanchez, and Jhon Cordoba running up beside him, each with a goal and deliciously high ratings. Talk about setting the table, huh?
Camilo Vargas hasn't been tested too often with just about 4 saves, but he maintains a better rating than his Panamanian counterpart, Mosquera. That will definitely add some brandy to Colombia's flambé.
Do remember that cooking isn't just about tossing high-rated ingredients together. Harmony matters, and that's where Colombia's tournament record comes into play. Undefeated, their last five matches, including the mouth-watering draw against Brazil, show they've got their presentation skills honed.
As we get ready for this clash, keep the spread data in mind if you're looking to bet on this fixture. Panama might pay $10.00 for the win, but as it stands, this Colombia side has high-quality ingredients to serve up a sumptuous win.
Albert’s Prediction: Colombia by 2