As the third round of CONCACAF qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026 intensifies, El Salvador vs Panama on October 10, 2025, at Estadio Cuscatlan in San Salvador, with both teams vying for crucial points in Group B. El Salvador, seeking their first win after a mixed start, faces a Panama side that’s shown resilience but struggled in recent outings.
Recent reports reveal El Salvador’s injury troubles, with captain Henry Romero out and key midfielder Osorio missing, which could significantly weaken their defense.
Panama, led by captain Anibal Godoy, comes in with motivation despite recent form issues, looking to build on their impressive away record in the qualifiers.
This clash could define their paths to the expanded tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the USA.
El Salvador vs Panama – Date, Time, Predictions, and More
The El Salvador vs Panama 2026 World Cup qualifier is scheduled for Friday, October 10, 2025, kicking off at 9:00 p.m. ET (6:00 p.m. PT / 12:00 p.m. AEDT on October 11) at Estadio Cuscatlan in San Salvador.
This Group B encounter promises tense action as both nations chase automatic qualification spots. Early predictions favor Panama for a narrow victory, with bookmakers listing them at around -150 odds, while a draw sits at +250.
For fans seeking an El Salvador vs Panama WCQ preview, this guide provides team analysis, H2H records, and viewing options for audiences in the USA, Canada, and Australia.
Team News and Analysis
El Salvador approaches the match with injury concerns as of October 2025. Captain Henry Romero is out, and midfielder Osorio is unavailable, forcing adjustments in midfield and defense.
Forward Nathan Ordaz, yet to score internationally, was substituted early in their last outing, adding to attacking woes. Veteran Darwin Ceren, set for his 104th cap, will anchor the midfield.
Currently winless in the third round with a draw and loss, El Salvador averages 0.5 goals scored but concedes 1.5 per game, relying on home support for a turnaround.
Panama, meanwhile, reports no major injuries, with Tomas Rodriguez in fine scoring form (three goals in four recent matches). Captain Anibal Godoy, with a record 153 caps, leads a squad blending experience and youth.
Their form shows defensive solidity but offensive struggles, averaging 1 goal scored and 0.75 conceded. Sitting mid-group, Panama aims to exploit El Salvador’s vulnerabilities through counter-attacks in this away fixture.
Both teams emphasize defensive setups, with El Salvador focusing on home resilience and Panama on road efficiency amid the push for World Cup berths.
El Salvador vs Panama Head-to-Head Record
El Salvador and Panama have clashed 59 times historically, with El Salvador holding 23 wins, 13 draws, and 23 losses. Matches are often competitive, averaging 2.2 goals, though recent encounters trend low-scoring. Panama edges recent form with four wins in the last eight meetings.
All-time H2h
| Date | Competition | Home Team | Score | Away Team | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04 Jul 2023 | CONCACAF Gold Cup | Panama | 2-2 | El Salvador | Draw |
| 16 Nov 2021 | FIFA World Cup | Panama | 2-1 | El Salvador | Panama |
| 07 Oct 2021 | FIFA World Cup | El Salvador | 1-0 | Panama | El Salvador |
| 20 Jan 2017 | International Friendly | Panama | 1-0 | El Salvador | Panama |
| 17 Feb 2016 | International Friendly | Panama | 1-0 | El Salvador | Panama |
| 14 Nov 2014 | International Friendly | El Salvador | 1-3 | Panama | Panama |
| 13 Sep 2014 | Copa Centroamericana | El Salvador | 0-1 | Panama | Panama |
| 20 Jan 2013 | Copa Centroamericana | El Salvador | 0-0 | Panama | Draw |
El Salvador vs Panama Predicted XI Lineups
Accounting for injuries and form, here are the predicted starting lineups:
El Salvador’s possible starting XI (4-3-3):
- GK: Mario González
- DF: Bryan Tamacas, Alexander Larín, Roberto Domínguez, Lizandro Claros
- MF: Darwin Cerén, Narciso Orellana, Jairo Henríquez, Marvin Monterroza
- FW: Joaquín Rivas, Nelson Bonilla
Panama possible starting XI (4-2-3-1):
- GK: Orlando Mosquera
- DF: Michael Amir Murillo, Fidel Escobar, Harold Cummings, Eric Davis
- MF: Adalberto Carrasquilla, Cristian Martínez, Alberto Quintero, José Luis Rodríguez
- FW: Ismael Díaz, José Fajardo
Key Players
El Salvador: Darwin Ceren (veteran midfielder with record caps, dictating play), Nathan Ordaz (young forward seeking breakthrough), and Styven Vasquez (potential replacement up front).
Panama: Anibal Godoy (captain and record holder, midfield anchor), Tomas Rodriguez (in-form scorer), and Ismael Diaz (attacking threat).
El Salvador vs Panama Match Prediction
With both sides struggling offensively, a tight, low-scoring game is anticipated. Panama’s superior form and depth give them the edge. Prediction: El Salvador 0-1 Panama. Under 2.5 goals is likely, reflecting recent trends.
Where to watch El Salvador vs Panama in the USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe
In the USA, stream live on Paramount+ (English) or Telemundo Deportes Ahora (Spanish), with highlights on FOX Sports. Canadian viewers can access via fuboTV Canada or DAZN for CONCACAF coverage. For Australia, Optus Sport streams the match live.
In Europe, watch on Concacaf GO, UEFA.tv in select countries, or YouTube for free streams where available. For the best El Salvador vs Panama WCQ live stream in USA, Canada, or Australia, check Paramount+ or DAZN for HD options and ensure VPN access if needed.