Colombia remain firmly in contention for overall glory in the Copa America and the in-form South Americans can swat aside Panama in the last eight.
Nestor Lorenzo’s side last tasted defeat way back in February 2022, and have impressed in the US so far this summer, beating Paraguay 2-1 and Costa Rica 3-0, before a 1-1 draw with Brazil — when qualification was already assured — in their final Group A game to secure top spot.
They are taking on a Panama side that did well to finish second in Group C, beating the hosts and Bolivia to progress behind Uruguay, but one that is likely to be found out during this step up in class.
Team news
Mateus Uribe is tipped to start in midfield for Colombia as Jefferson Lerma misses the game through suspension. Otherwise, Los Cafeteros have a full squad to choose from.
Adalberto Carrasquilla is available again for Panama following his ban, while Jose Rodriguez remains a major injury doubt.
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The stats
Colombia have been in front at half-time and full-time in five of their last six games, including in their group wins over Paraguay and Costa Rica.
Colombia have scored 17 goals, conceding just five, in that six-game spell.
Panama have a poor head-to-head record versus Colombia, winning just four of their 14 meetings, with Colombia triumphing in the other 10 games.
Panama have kept just one clean sheet in their last nine games.
Prediction
Colombia look serious contenders for the Copa America title after impressive wins over Paraguay and Costa Rica, while Lorenzo’s side have momentum and no shortage of confidence thanks to their long unbeaten run.
This is a well-drilled outfit that operates effectively, using star men Davinson Sanchez, Luis Diaz and James Rodriguez to great effect.
Right wing-back Daniel Munoz has also caught the eye with two goals in the tournament and Colombia have the pace, power and thrust to hurt Panama from the off.
Expect the favourites to dominate possession and territory and be in front at half-time as Panama, who are ranked 43rd in the world — 31 places below Colombia — look set to be outclassed.
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