Inglewood, Calif. — In a thrilling match, Panama pulled off a surprise victory against the United States, winning 1-0 with a jaw-dropping goal from Cecilio Waterman in the dying seconds of the game. This goal, which came during injury time of the second half, helped Panama secure a spot in the CONCACAF Nations League final, where they will face Mexico.
Waterman, who plays professionally in Chile, received a pass from Adalberto Carrasquilla. With a perfectly angled right-footed shot, he found the back of the net, marking his 11th international goal. It was Panama’s only shot on target all night, yet it was enough to clinch the win.
“This one was incredible,” Waterman exclaimed after the match, visibly emotional as he celebrated. He jumped into the stands, shouting his admiration for soccer legend Thierry Henry, who was in attendance.
This victory further cements Panama’s recent trend of outperforming expectations. They’ve now beaten the U.S. three times in competitive matches, including a close victory in the Gold Cup semifinal earlier this year. Coach Thomas Christiansen has led the team to impressive feats, including a previous win against Costa Rica in the Nations League quarterfinals.
“We want to give that gift to Panama,” Waterman said.
On the other hand, U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino faces mounting pressure after this defeat, which came just months after he took over the team following a disappointing Copa America exit. Pochettino expressed disappointment in his team’s slow play and lack of aggression, especially in the first half.
The U.S. had opportunities to score. Josh Sargent hit the post early on, and a shot by Weston McKennie didn’t find the net. Sargent had a goal disallowed for offside, extending his streak of over five years without scoring for the national team.
Panama’s win marks a significant moment in their soccer history, occurring at the same venue where they faced heartbreak in the 2023 Gold Cup final against Mexico. Interestingly, they were able to overcome both the U.S. and a tough loss earlier this year to reach this final.
Coach Christiansen emphasized the team’s tactical discipline as key to their success. “The only way to beat the U.S. is with order, and a little luck,” he noted, adding that fortune favored them this time.
For the first time since the tournament’s inception in 2019, the CONCACAF Nations League trophy will not stay in the U.S., previously dominated by them after winning the first three editions.
As Panama heads into the final, they carry the hopes of a nation eager for success in the international arena. The upcoming match against Mexico promises to be an exciting challenge as they strive to make history once more.
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Source linkMauricio Pochettino, Matt Turner, Soccer, Thierry Henry, Cecilio Waterman, Christian Pulisic, Mexico, Panama, CA State Wire, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Adalberto Carrasquilla, Sports, Josh Sargent, Thomas Christiansen, Antonee Robinson
