It is nine years since Bolivia last won a game at the Copa América, so it is little surprise that only an almighty and unlikely swing in goal difference will prevent them crashing out of the tournament at the group stage. That wouldn’t be anything new for Bolivia, but manager Antônio Carlos Zago will be most concerned by the manner in which they’ve lost their two games – particularly their 5-0 drubbing at the hands of Uruguay on matchday two.
Concerningly, the Greens have faced a whopping 19 shots on target across their two group games this tournament, and managed just four themselves. They have also extended a dreadful losing streak to five successive matches, while 11 of their last 12 competitive internationals have ended in defeat (W1), so supporters may be forgiven for approaching their clash with Panama with a hint of trepidation.
While Bolivia are playing only for pride, the same cannot be said of the Canal Men, who are eyeing up a first-ever Copa América quarter-final. Competing at the tournament for just the second time, Thomas Christiansen’s side can still reach the knockout stages thanks to a shock 2-1 victory over the United States on Thursday, a game which they came from behind to win.
That result means Panama will progress should they better the tournament hosts’ result in the final round of fixtures. And although the manager is warning his players to keep “calm,” the fact they have won nine of their last 14 outings (D1, L4), as well as registering four successive H2H victories against Bolivia, gives fans every reason to be confident of seeing their team make history.
Key battle: Following the hammering to Uruguay, Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra has conceded at least two goals in ten of his last 13 caps (W2, L11). Attempting to extend that record will be forward José Fajardo, who has helped Panama to victory in each of the nine competitive internationals in which he has scored.
Hot stat: Across their last 22 internationals, Bolivia have scored only three goals before half-time.
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