Panama Shift Between 4-4-2 and 5-4-1 Ahead of England's Group Match
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 27
Panama Shift Between 4-4-2 and 5-4-1 Ahead of England's Group Match
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 27
Summary
Panama have looked more competitive than their results suggest, but the 42nd-ranked side have struggled to convert good spells into goals with Adalberto Carrasquilla injured.
Thomas Christiansen's team has switched between an aggressive 4-4-2 press, a 5-3-2 mid-block and a deeper 5-4-1, making them tactically flexible but vulnerable when their press is beaten.
England are likely to target the flanks and space behind Panama's back five, with quick switches wide and Harry Kane's passing into a slightly higher defensive line highlighted as key routes.
Panama can still threaten through short combinations and crosses, yet their lack of finishing and elimination from the next round leave motivation and team selection as major questions.