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Suriname and Panama meet in a historic CONCACAF World Cup qualifier on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at the Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed Stadion in Paramaribo. Kickoff is set for 5:30 p.m. ET. This is Suriname’s second appearance in the final round since 1978, while Panama arrives as a seasoned contender aiming for its third World Cup in four tournaments.
Suriname, under coach Stanley Menzo, impressed in the second round, winning all four games. They will rely heavily on Gleofilo Vlijter, the nation’s top scorer, supported by a disciplined defensive approach and the energy of a passionate home crowd.
Where to Watch Suriname vs. Panama in US TV
Fixture: Suriname vs Panama
Round: Third-round Group A
Date & Time: Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 21:30 UTC (~5:30 p.m. ET)
Location: Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed Stadion, Paramaribo, Suriname.
Live Stream Anywhere: Watch Live
Panama, ranked significantly higher, is managed by Thomas Christiansen. The team enters unbeaten in six matches, with leadership in midfield from Aníbal Godoy and attacking firepower from Ismael Díaz, who has been in prolific form.
WATCH: Suriname vs. Panama in US TV
Tactically, Suriname is expected to sit deep and counter, while Panama will press and dominate possession. Analysts lean toward a Panama victory, though many see Suriname as capable of earning their first-ever point in the final round.
This matchup marks a historic first-ever official meeting between the two nations in World Cup qualifying. Suriname is making only its second appearance in this final round since the 1978 campaign, while Panama enters with confidence after topping their second-round group undefeated.
Panama
Coach: Thomas Christiansen. - Strengths: Ranked ~30th in world vs Suriname’s 136th; unbeaten in past six official matches (5 wins, 1 draw). - Form: Confident and consistent, bringing scoring efficiency and experience.
Projected Lineups (Estimated)
Suriname (Likely XI): Goalkeeper: local stalwart. Defense: compact backline with diaspora defenders. Midfield: creative core, influenced by Dutch football. Attack: Gleofilo Vlijter as striker.
Panama (Likely XI):
Solid back four, midfield led by Aníbal Godoy, attack led by Ismael Díaz.
Tactical Expectations
Suriname will prioritize defensive discipline and structured build-up, aiming to avoid early Panama breakthroughs. Expect them to rely on set-pieces and transitions. Panama will press high, exploit spaces, and capitalize on chances.
Predictions & Odds
SportsMole: Suriname could earn first-ever final-round points.
SportsGambler: Suriname +0.5 (likely to avoid defeat).
SportsKeeda: Panama win 2–0.
Tips.gg: Panama win 3–1.
Transfermarkt: Away win, odds ~1.67.
FootyStats: Both teams show 60% win consistency in respective contexts.
Expert Verdict
Panama’s consistency and attacking quality give them the upper hand, but Suriname’s home advantage and resilience may keep things close.
Panama team news
Panama are nearly at full strength, with manager Thomas Christiansen summoning 24 players, including captain Aníbal Godoy. Star forwards José Fajardo and Ismael Díaz—each with 15 international goals—are both fit and available, and Díaz leads Panama with six goals in competitive matches this year.