Panama and Bolivia look to make their mark in Group D of the Copa America 2016 when they face off on Monday.

The match

Both sides are not fancied to do anything in this tournament, especially since they are paired with CONMEBOL titans Argentina and Chile. Both of those teams are expected to wipe the floor with these squads and runaway with the group.

However, both Panama and Bolivia know that this game is an opportunity to wind up with an advantage over one or both Argentina and Chile. A win coupled with a tie in the other game would give one of these sides a leg up entering the far more difficult final two games. A draw puts both in the peril most expected from the off.

So expect both teams to come out looking for blood and a quick win in what will be a surprisingly entertaining game.

Bolivia is not new to surprises, having been a standout last year in the Copa America 2015. In a group that featured Ecuador, Mexico and Chile, Bolivia went in and stole four points from the first two games stunning Ecuador with a quick 3-0 lead. But the team's tournament turned at that point as it conceded two goals against Ecuador and never stopped the bleeding, losing 5-0 against Chile and then getting eliminated by Chile right after. In the World Cup qualifiers, the team has continued to struggle to find any semblance of the form that it showcased at the start of the tournament last year.

Panama has a two game winless streak going after losing 2-0 against Brazil last week.

History favors Bolivia

The Bolivians have the overall edge in this matchup, winning four of eight games while losing three and drawing one. However, Panama has won the two most recent matches. Both were international friendlies that took place in 2011.

Player to Watch

This match does not feature a dynamic superstar on either side. It will be interesting to see if Blas Perez or Luis Tejada of Panama get a chance to add to their respective glory. Both players are in their mid 30's and are likely looking at their final chance to make an international statement.

Prediction

Panama pulls off the surprise, winning 2-0.

Schedule and Streaming Info

The game starts at 7 p.m. EDT. It can be viewed on Fox Sports 1 or Univision. Those with a FuboTV subscription or Fox Soccer 2 Go subscription can watch the game online.

Related