Panama fears match fixingin game with Mexico

BRIBERY and not the skill of their opponents is what seems to concern Panama’s soccer hierarchy in the run up to an historical game with Mexico.

The outcome of the match on October 11 will likely determine which of the two teams gains a place in next year’s World Cup in Brazil

Match fixing is not new to international soccer, and earlier this week 14 people involved in a worldwide scam were arrested in Singapore,
In Panama, Thursday, September,19 local officials expressed concern about the integrity of the referees in the crucial match at the Azteca stadium.
"What worries us most is not what will happen on the field," Panama Soccer Federation President Peter Chaluja said: "It is off the field where we we have our concerns."
"We Feel That Mexico is desperate and can fall into unsuitable acts," added the official.
Mexico and Panama are tied with eight points. The winner of the match will be in a good position to qualify for at least a playoff for a berth in the finals. The loser would likely be eliminated.
The United States heads the group with 16 points, followed by Costa Rica with 15. Both have already qualified.
Honduras has 11 points while Jamaica has  been eliminated.
Panamanian Officials fear That, due to the Importance of the game, there might be bribes to the referee or the Panamanian players, either with money or with future contracts in Mexico.
"We Know That issues of bribes could touch some Panamanian footballers in this type of game," said Panama coach Julio Dely Valdes.