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It's a battle of bitter rivalries when Mexico takes on Panama in an international friendly on Wednesday night. High-powered Mexico scored two goals but ultimately fell to the United States in the Concacaf Nations League final earlier this month. Panama, meanwhile, enters Wednesday's contest unbeaten in its last seven fixtures. Both teams are preparing for the Concacaf Gold Cup, with Mexico looking to defend its title starting next month. 

Kickoff from Nissan Stadium in Nashville is set for 9 p.m. ET. Mexico is the -250 favorite (risk $250 to win $100) in the latest Mexico vs. Panama odds from William Hill Sportsbook, and the over-under for total goals scored is 2.5. Before you lock in any Panama vs. Mexico picks, be sure to check out the international soccer predictions and betting advice from insider Tom Fornelli

Fornelli has been a CBS Sports writer since 2010 and is a consistent winner who has demonstrated his expertise in every single sport. The entertaining Fornelli often makes appearances on The Early Edge, SportsLine's daily betting podcast. He has returned 4.2 percent in profit on his Early Edge picks, including a hot Champions League semifinal round in which he nailed both winners and a +320 prop that cashed big for anyone tailing his picks.

Now, Fornelli has taken an in-depth look at Mexico vs. Panama. You can head to SportsLine to see the picks. Here are the betting lines and trends for Panama vs. Mexico:  

  • Mexico vs. Panama spread: Mexico -1.5 (+110)
  • Mexico vs. Panama over-under: 2.5 goals
  • Mexico vs. Panama money line: Mexico -250, Panama +750, Draw +340
  • MEX: Mexico is unbeaten in its last nine matches against Panama
  • PAN: Panama has scored two or more goals in four of its last five games

Why you should back Mexico 

El Tri has dominated their rivalry against Panama over the years. In fact, Mexico is unbeaten in its last nine matches against Panama, winning eight and drawing one. It their most recent meeting, El Tri secured a 3-0 win over Panama in a Concacaf Nations League match in 2019. 

Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has plenty of experience for the Mexican National Team. Ochoa has 110 caps for Mexico, and he's recorded a total of 45 clean sheets for El Tri. In addition to a strong presence in goal, Mexico features a lethal offensive attack. El Tri registered 21 shots against the United States and held possession for 57 percent of the match in their 3-2 setback in the Concacaf Nations League final. 

Why you should back Panama

Panama is coming off a disappointing draw against Curaçao in a FIFA World Cup qualifier. Despite being held scoreless in their last outing, the Panamanians have been sensational in front of goal in their most recent fixtures. In fact, Panama has scored 20 goals in its last five games. 

Panama's attack is spearheaded by Cecilio Waterman, who's scored in three of the last four games. The Panamanians also rely on midfielder Anibal Godoy to create space and play through balls that can lead to goal scoring opportunities. In addition, Mexico has been held scoreless in two of its last three games, which bodes well for a Panama defense that has given up just one goal in its last four fixtures. 

How to make Mexico vs. Panama picks

Fornelli has analyzed the Mexico vs. Panama matchup from every possible angle. He's leaning over on the goal total (2.5), and he's also revealed his best bets, including one that returns plus-money. He's only sharing those picks on SportsLine.

So who wins Panama vs. Mexico? And where does all the betting value lie? Visit SportsLine now to see the best bets for Mexico vs. Panama, all from the expert who has crushed his soccer picks