Copa America 2024 tips and predictions: Colombia vs Panama - James Rodriguez and co could flatten CONCACAF side

Colombia’s reward for pipping Brazil to the Group D crown is a quarter-final clash with CONCACAF outsiders Panama at State Farm Stadium in Arizona.

Nestor Lorenzo’s side have shown bundles of character to go unbeaten in 26 matches and their fighting spirit earned them a 1-1 draw with the Brazilians.

James Rodriguez turns back the clock each time he dons a Colombian jersey and Wednesday was no different as the midfield maestro turned in another classy showing.

They made a slow start when Raphinha produced a magical free-kick but that fleeting moment of class was all they were allowed, as Colombia limited their influence.

Dorival Junior’s side struggled to edge possession and didn’t create a single big chance as they were limited to 0.29xG from seven shots.

 

 

That’s mean. Super mean. Teams just don’t shut Brazil down and yet Colombia have done it in back-to-back meetings to stake a claim at this year’s Copa America.

We also have to give Panama a round of applause. After all, there are two teams in this quarter-final, and the North Americans beat the United States to reach this stage.

The state of American soccer is a discussion for another time. However, it’s still an impressive result which they backed up when beating Bolivia 3-1.

On the other hand, the first rule of the Copa club is everyone beats Bolivia. Secondly, they benefited from an early red card against the States and wouldn’t have otherwise won.

We could run through the ins and outs of the tactical battle that will take place, or we can just acknowledge one team is superior in every way and should score multiple goals.

 

Key stats

- Colombia are unbeaten in 26 matches across all competitions
- Colombia kept a clean sheet in 15 of those matches
- At their last Copa, Panama lost 5-0 to Argentina, 4-2 to Chile and 3-1 to Uruguay
- Panama have failed to score in seven of their last eight losses

 

Suggested bets

Colombia -1.5 Asian handicap

James Rodriguez score or assist

Colombia to win to nil