Mexico and Panama will battle it out for the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup trophy when they meet in the final of the tournament at California’s SoFi Stadium this weekend.
Key Takeaways
- Mexico claimed a 3-0 victory over Jamaica in the semi-finals, while Panama defeated the United States on penalties
- The Mexicans have reached 10 of the last 15 Gold Cup finals, triumphing on eight occasions since 1993
- Panama have reached two Gold Cup showpieces over the years, suffering final heartache in 2005 and 2013
Given their rich Gold Cup history, Mexico head into the final as overwhelming favourites. However, Panama will fancy their chances of lifting the trophy this weekend, having dispatched the United States in the semi-finals.
Mexico Form
Mexico punched their ticket to an 11th Gold Cup final in three decades thanks to a dominant victory over Jamaica earlier this week, with Henry Martin, Luis Chavez and Roberto Alvarado grabbing the goals.
After taking six points from a possible nine during the group stage – easing past Honduras and Haiti before losing 1-0 to guest nation Qatar – El Tri defeated Cota Rica 2-0 in the quarter-finals before silencing the Reggae Boyz.
The Mexicans find themselves in a third successive Gold Cup final, having triumphed in 2019 before losing in 2021. Accordingly, Jaime Lozano’s men will be confident of securing a record ninth title for their country.
Panama Form
Meanwhile, Panama booked their place in the final with a dramatic penalty shootout win over the United States. Following 90 minutes of goalless action, Ivan Anderson gave Los Canaleros the lead in extra time, but Jesus Ferreira’s equaliser sent the semi-final to penalties.
After spot-kick misses from Ferreira and Cristian Roldan, Adalberto Carrasquilla netted the winning penalty to silence San Diego’s Snapdragon Stadium. Now, Panama are just one win away from clinching their first-ever Gold Cup crown.
Led by Danish manager Thomas Christiansen, Los Canaleros have exceeded all expectations this summer. After taking seven points from their three group games, Panama thrashed Qatar 4-0 in the quarter-finals. Have they got what it takes to go all the way?
Head-to-Head
Mexico are currently enjoying a 13-game unbeaten streak against Panama, having picked up 11 wins and two draws against Los Canaleros since 2013.
In terms of the overall head-to-head record, Panama have managed to win just five of their 41 previous meetings with the Mexicans across all competitions.
Team News
Mexico manager Jaime Lozano will likely stick with his favoured 4-4-2 formation, with Orbelin Pineda and Uriel Antuna operating on the wings. Elsewhere, Johan Vasquez and Cesar Montes will resume their centre-back partnership.
On the flip side, Thomas Christiansen is expected to utilise his preferred 3-4-3 formation, with Andres Andrade, Harold Cummings and Fidel Escobar set to occupy the backline.
Key Players
Mexican striker Henry Martin has chalked up two goals and two assists in four Gold Cup appearances, while Luis Chaves has chipped in with two goals from midfield.
Panama’s key player is Ismael Diaz, who netted a hat-trick against Qatar in the quarter-finals, taking his tally to four goals and one assist. Jose Fajardo has two goals and one assist to his name, while left-back Eric Davis has contributed three assists.
How to Watch on TV or Online
Fans in the UK can watch the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup final between Mexico and Panama on Viaplay Sports 1.
Final Thoughts
Although Mexico enter the final as rightful favourites, there are no guarantees that El Tri will lift the trophy. Given that Panama have continuously upset the odds over the past few weeks, we should see a tight final between the perennial CONCACAF kings and this year’s surprise package.