England have enjoyed the lion’s share of possession in the opening 45 minutes but have struggled to break down a disciplined Panama defence in a frustrating first half.
The Three Lions have controlled the tempo, yet their build-up play has been slow and predictable, allowing Panama to remain compact and comfortable without facing sustained danger.
Panama has executed its defensive game plan effectively, sitting deep, closing down spaces, and limiting England’s attacking opportunities.
While the Central Americans have offered little going forward, they appear content to absorb pressure and could look to exploit counter-attacking opportunities after the break if England continues to commit bodies forward.
With the match still finely poised, England will need to inject more width, pace, and directness into their play in the second half if they are to unlock Panama’s resilient defence.
