Panama vs. Canada Prediction and Odds (Trying to Make Sense of Meaningless Game)
By Matt De Saro
Canada came through for us in the Asian Handicap after beating Jamaica 4-0 in their last game. As I predicted, it bounced back after a disappointing loss to Costa Rica 1-0. Coming off an impressive win, the Canadians now head down to Panama for the next game of the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying round.
They currently lead their group over the United States by three points. The United States also cashed a winner for us after blowing out Panama 5-1. Panama fell to 5-3-5 after the loss and into fifth place in the group. It hasn't won a game since a 3-2 game over Jamaica, a team that is already eliminated from contention. I think that Panama suffers a similar fate against Canada as it did to the Americans.
Here are the odds for the WCQ match courtesy of WynnBET.
Panama vs. Canada Odds and Over/Under
3-Way Moneyline:
- Panama: +275
- Canada: +115
- Draw: +210
Over/Under: 2.5 (Over: +150/Under: -195)
Panama vs. Canada Prediction and Pick
The Canucks put together a very impressive win over Jamaica at home last week. Jamaica is one of the worst teams in the world right now, but Panama is not much better. Even with this game taking place at Estadio Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez, I am not sure the home field advantage would be sufficient to set Panama up for a win.
On paper, Panama should get beat up pretty easily in this game. But, Canada clinched a berth at the Qatar 2022 World Cup after beating Jamaica. Panama has been eliminated already from contention.
So, this game has zero ramifications on anything other than pride on both sides. But, Canada could use this game to rest some of their better players. I think Canada still wants to win the group, but how far will they go to accomplish that? I think the offense remains tonight but Canada could put in some second-stringers on defense.
I think this game has one of two likely outcomes. Either both teams just go through the motions of this meaningless game and it ends with a low score. Maybe even a draw. The other outcome is that Panama comes out swinging while Canada just plays it smart to avoid a loss.
With Canada getting a much better ML price against Canada than Jamaica, I’m willing to take a chance on them. Even if Canada phones this game in, they still have a good chance to win.
PICK: Panama +115 to win