The upcoming Copa America clash between Uruguay and Panama is set to be an intriguing contest.
As the two teams prepare to face off at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, here is an in-depth look at their current form, team news, and predictions.
Team Form and Recent Performances
Uruguay
Heading into the 2024 Copa America, Uruguay are brimming with confidence. Under the guidance of Marcelo Bielsa, they have won their last three fixtures of 2023 and have been relatively consistent this year.
Their recent performances include a dominant 4-0 victory over Mexico. Known for their high-intensity pressing game, Uruguay have also managed to maintain a solid defence, keeping five clean sheets in their last seven matches.
Historically, Uruguay have struggled to win their opening group fixtures in recent Copa America tournaments but have shown resilience and experience in subsequent matches.
Panama
Panama, making their second Copa America appearance, are looking to build on their recent successes, which include a strong start to their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign and reaching the final of the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Despite this, their record against CONMEBOL teams is less impressive, with only one win in their last nine encounters.
However, they have shown they can occasionally punch above their weight, as evidenced by a memorable 1-1 draw with Brazil in 2019.
Team News
Uruguay
Uruguay’s squad features a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talent.
Record goalscorer Luis Suarez and captain Jose Gimenez bring a wealth of experience, while Liverpool's Darwin Nunez, who recently scored a hat-trick against Mexico, is in scintillating form.
However, they will be without Edinson Cavani, who retired from international football in 2022.
Panama
Panama face some challenges with key players missing. Captain Anibal Godoy is out due to a thigh injury, and Harold Cummings declined a call-up.
The midfield will rely heavily on Adalberto Carrasquilla, the best player of the 2023 Gold Cup, to orchestrate play.
Forwards Jose Fajardo and Cecilio Waterman, with 11 and 10 goals respectively, are their main scoring threats.
Prediction
Given Uruguay’s depth of talent, experience, and current form, they are favourites to win this encounter.
Panama's struggles against South American teams and their recent form suggest they might find it difficult to overcome Uruguay's well-drilled side.
Our prediction is a 4-0 victory for Uruguay, as they look to make a strong start in their quest for a record 16th Copa America title.
Uruguay 
Panama 
