The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in CONCACAF reach a critical juncture as Panama vs Suriname in a top-of-the-table Group A clash at Estadio Rommel Fernandez in Panama City on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
Kicking off at 9:00 p.m. ET (6:00 p.m. PT / 2:00 a.m. BST on October 15), this fourth-round match could decide the group leader, with both teams level on points and vying for an automatic spot in the expanded tournament hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
In the October FIFA World Cup qualification Window match, Panama seeks revenge after a draw in the reverse fixture, while Suriname aims to maintain their surprise lead.
Panama vs Suriname Match Overview and Context
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This encounter is part of CONCACAF’s third-round qualifiers, where 12 teams are split into three groups of four, playing home and away from September to November 2025.
Group winners qualify directly, with the two best runners-up advancing to inter-confederation playoffs. CONCACAF earns six automatic spots plus two playoff berths.
Panama, coached by Thomas Christiansen, is pursuing their second World Cup after 2018. Suriname, under Dean Gorré, is chasing a historic first appearance.
Historically, the teams drew 0-0 in their only recent meeting last month, with Panama dominating possession but failing to score. Expect a tactical battle at the 32,000-capacity Estadio Rommel Fernandez, where Panama boasts a strong home record in qualifiers.
Current Standings in CONCACAF Third Round Group A
As of October 13, 2025 (before matchday 4), Group A is tightly contested:
| Pos | Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Suriname | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 2 | +1 | 5 |
| 2 | Panama | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 1 | +1 | 5 |
| 3 | El Salvador | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 3 |
| 4 | Guatemala | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 2 |
Suriname leads on goal difference after a 1-1 draw with Guatemala, while Panama beat El Salvador 1-0. Both remain unbeaten in this phase.
Panama vs Suriname Match Preview
Panama has been solid defensively, conceding just once in three qualifiers while winning their last home game 1-0. Unbeaten in seven World Cup qualifiers (W4 D3), they’ve lost only once in eight overall.
Christiansen’s side dominates possession (averaging 60%) but needs better finishing, having scored twice in three games.
Suriname has surprised with five points, drawing 0-0 with Panama and 1-1 with Guatemala before beating El Salvador 2-1. Unbeaten in eight qualifiers (W6 D2), they’ve won four straight in Suriname but face a tough away test. Gorré’s team thrives on counters, with five goals conceded in qualifiers.
Panama vs Suriname Team News and Possible Lineups
Panama Team News
No major injuries; Christiansen has a full squad. Michael Murillo returns from suspension, likely starting at right-back. Yoel Bárcenas and Edgar Bárcenas push for recalls after strong sub appearances.
Possible Panama Starting Lineup (3-4-3):
- Mosquera; Murillo, Escobar, Andrade; Barcenas, Carrasquilla, Godoy, Davis; Diaz, Fajardo, Rodriguez.
Suriname Team News
Fully fit; Gorré may rotate after a busy window. Gleofilo Vlijter, with two qualifier goals, leads the attack. No suspensions.
Possible Suriname Starting Lineup (4-3-3):
- Hahn; Abena, Dankerlui, Pinas, Haps; Eduard, Leerdam, Chery; Becker, Vlijter, Comvalius.
Panama vs Suriname Prediction
Panama’s home form and depth should overcome Suriname’s resilience in a low-scoring affair.
- Prediction: Panama 2-1 Suriname. Los Canaleros take the group lead.
How to Watch Panama vs Suriname Live
- Date and Time: Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT
- Venue: Estadio Rommel Fernandez, Panama City, Panama
- TV and Streaming (USA): Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo Network, Telemundo Deportes Youtube, or stream on fuboTV and YouTube TV
- Global Options: FIFA+ (select regions), or local broadcasters like TVMax (Panama) and RTV (Suriname)
- Live Scores and Updates: ESPN, Sofascore, or Flashscore for real-time stats and highlights
Panama vs Suriname Conclusion
Panama vs Suriname is a defining 2026 World Cup qualifier in Group A that could swing the leadership. With Panama favored, expect tactics and potential upsets.
