Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the CONCACAF Gold Cup match.
Jamaica underestimated Guatemala in the opening round and paid the price. Panama are clearly a stronger side than Jamaica and now have a clear example of what to avoid — this presents an ideal chance to secure a second group stage victory.
Guatemala
Currently sitting 106th in the FIFA rankings, Guatemala lack players from the top European leagues. Nevertheless, the team managed a disciplined 1:0 victory over Jamaica, despite the opposition featuring several players with English Premier League experience. During the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Guatemala impressively topped their group ahead of Canada, a side that played at the 2022 World Cup, before being eliminated 0:1 by Jamaica in the quarter-finals. This is a team capable of springing surprises.
Panama
The picture is much clearer with Panama. They finished as runners-up at the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup and reached the final of the 2024/25 CONCACAF Nations League. They are also in control of their group in the second round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. In their opening fixture of this tournament, Panama swept aside Guadeloupe (5:2). Panama dominated the penalty area and registered 23 shots on goal.
Guatemala vs Panama Prediction
Guatemala are undoubtedly a tougher side than Guadeloupe, but it’s worth noting they lost 0:3 in their most recent encounter with Panama. A similar result may be unlikely this time, but a comfortable win for the visitors remains a realistic expectation — that’s where our confidence lies.
