The United States will face Panama in a World Cup 2014 qualifying match tonight at 9:30 p.m. in Century Link Field in Seattle, placing two of the most competitive teams within the North, Central American and Caribbean region against each other.

The United States, who is currently in second place within the group, currently has seven points (along with Costa Rica and Mexico) and has four goals in their favor and three goals against them.

Panama, ranked fourth in the group, has five goals in their favor and three goals against them, a match record identical to Costa Rica, who is currently in first place within the group.

While the United States' record within the group has earned them a better chance at an early berth thus far, Panama's squad is vying for a spot on the top three of the North, Central American and Caribbean region group.

The top three teams from the group are given a ticket to play in the World Cup 2014 while the fourth place team plays an alternative match against New Zealand for a spot in the tournament, held in Brazil.

But Panama might have some difficulties defeating the United States in their home territory - the United States squad defeated Jamaica in a World Cup 2014 qualifying match last week, earning three important points within the group.

Another disadvantage working against Panama will be the absence of star forward and veteran player Blas Perez, who is recovering from an illness and is not fit to play.

Although Panama faces an uphill battle against the United States team in tonight's qualifying match, the Central American team might have a chance at earning a third-place spot within the group.