Panama and Cuba are 2 of only 8 teams remaining in the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup and because of the talent each club possesses, the Panamanian nationals and Cuban nationals surely won't be taken lightly after advancing through the opening round.
Cuba finished third in Group C behind the United States and Costa Rica but thanks to a heroic hat trick by Ariel Martinez in their final opening round match against Belize, Cuba advanced to the quarters by way of a goal aggregate.
RELATED: Cuba Vs. Belize: Ariel Martinez Sends Cuba To Gold Cup Quarters With Big Performance Against Belize
While Cuba back-doored their way into the tournament quarters, Panama is here thanks to winning Group A, edging out fellow quarterfinalist Mexico for the top spot.
When and Where to Watch Quarterfinal Match
The quarterfinal showdown between Panama and Cuba will be played on Saturday, July 20th at 3:30pm, EST. The first of 2 quarterfinal matches held at Atlanta's Georgia Dome, television coverage will be provided by both the FOX Soccer Channel and Univision TV, with pregame coverage on each network starting at 3:00pm, EST.
Those electing to watch the game via on-line live stream may do so by visiting FOX Soccer 2 Go.
Match Preview
Panama opened their tournament with an impressive 2-1 victory over Mexico. El Tri was considered one of the tournament favorites given their past history in the Gold Cup but after the Panamanians were able to take the early group advantage, Group A had 2 strong competitors competing for the top spot.
Upending Martinique the next time out, Panama earned the maximum of 6 points in 2 matches, placing them ahead of competitors Mexico, Martinique and Canada with only one opening round match to be played.
RELATED: Manchester United Transfer Rumors: Wayne Rooney Headed To Man U Premier League Rival Chelsea?
Though unable to score against Canada in their opening round finale, Panama and keepers Jamie Penedo Cano and Luis Mejia exited the first round with three-consecutive shutouts, an asset that will surely be needed in the quarterfinals against a talented Cuban offense.
While Panama enjoyed early success, Cuba struggled through a brutal 3-0 loss to Costa Rica in their tournament opener. Never able to sustain any offensive pressure, the Cuban defense surrendered 2 goals to midfielder Michael Barrantes and another to Jairo Ovando - all in a span of 26 minutes - to fall to 0-1.
RELATED: Manchester United Transfer News: Will Cesc Fabregas Depart Barcelona For Old Trafford?
Dropping a second-consecutive three-goal defeat, this time to the United States, Cuba needed a win in their next match and they needed to win big in order to advance to the quarterfinal round.
That crucial victory came in the form of a 4-0 win over Belize. Ariel Martinez recorded a hat trick as Cuba moved on by way of a goal aggregate, erasing 2 early defeats and providing the team with a new level of confidence.
Wrap Up
Be sure to catch all the action between Panama and Cuba on Saturday, July 20th at 3:30pm, EST. Television coverage will be provided by the FOX Soccer Channel and Univision television with an on-line live stream available through FOX Soccer 2 Go.
© 2024 Latin Times. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
