Panama vs Tunisia: Squad News & Preview

Published June 27th, 2018 - 08:27 GMT
The two sides already eliminated in Group G meet in Saransk and we are backing the African nation to record their second ever win at a World Cup
The two sides already eliminated in Group G meet in Saransk and we are backing the African nation to record their second ever win at a World Cup

There is little but pride at stake for these two sides in their final group game, but pride is something that both possess in abundance.

That trait was evident in Tunisia manager Nabil Maaloul's tears during the national anthem before their defeat to Belgium, and it was on display during the wild celebrations following Panama's goal against England with the side having already conceded six times.

The game may have little riding on it in terms of qualification, but both teams will be fully committed in their attempts to record a win.

Team news

The Central Americans have been pretty physical in their approach meaning they have picked up plenty of yellow cards. Both Michael Murillo and Armando Cooper are suspended for Panama, while for Tunisia goalkeeper Mouez Hassan remains injured.

Preview

Panama's goal against England came from a set piece and while it was a well taken header from Felipe Baloy, the side have looked extremely poor in front of goal.

Tunisia for their part managed to frustrate the Three Lions for large parts of the game, while against Belgium they managed 16 shots and enjoyed fractionally more possession. Nearly half the Tunisia squad play in Europe meaning they should be fitter than their Panamanian counterparts not to mention technically superior.

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