Panama Shocks USA with 94th Minute Goal to Win Semifinal Matchup

Courtesy: Concacaf/US Soccer

Panama has shocked the United States as Cecilio Waterman’s dramatic 94th-minute goal secured a stunning 1-0 victory in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals. In their first match under new head coach Mauricio Pochettino, the U.S. suffered a heartbreaking defeat, ending their reign in the competition.

Waterman took on a precise pass from Adalberto Carrasquilla and unleashed a powerful shot past goalkeeper Matt Turner, sending the Panamanian squad into a frenzy. The celebrations reached a new level when Waterman jumped onto the CBS broadcast desk, celebrating alongside French soccer legend Thierry Henry, who was just as shocked as every fan in the stadium, creating an unforgettable moment for Panama fans.

Despite a sluggish match overall, the U.S. had early chances to seize control. Josh Sargent came close multiple times, even finding the back of the net, but his goal was ruled offside. The Americans had some of their stars in the lineup featuring Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie, but they failed to convert anything when it mattered most.

This victory marks Panama’s third consecutive competitive win over the U.S.. For the first time in competition history, the Concacaf Nations League will crown a champion other than the United States, who won the tournament’s first three editions.

Up next, the U.S. will face the loser of Canada vs. Mexico in the third-place match on Sunday, while Panama will battle the winner for the championship, aiming to complete their fairytale run with a historic title.