COCACAF Nations League semi-finals: Panama knock out USA

The United States (US) saw their bid for a fourth consecutive Concacaf Nations League title dashed after losing 1-0 to Panama in the semi-finals in Inglewood, California, on Friday (21 March) morning IST. The winning goal was scored in extra time by Cecilio Waterman, who capitalised on a mistake by the US backline.

Panama defended well throughout the match, while the USA created several dangerous chances. Josh Sargent went close in the 19th minute, but the ball hit a defender and the post before being saved by Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera.

Weston McKennie went close with a fierce header, but Mosquera made another fine save. The USA went close through Sargent, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Panama’s resilience in the Concacaf Nations League semi-final finally paid off in extra time. Substitute Cecilio Waterman capitalised on a defensive lapse by the Americans, firing into the bottom left-hand corner of the net to seal Panama’s historic victory.

The result sends Panama through to the final, where they will meet the winner of Mexico or Canada. Meanwhile, the USA will have to wait until the CONCACAF Gold Cup in June for their only chance to lift a trophy before hosting the 2026 World Cup.

The defeat was a huge blow for the USA, who were looking to avenge last year’s Copa America loss to Panama, which contributed to the sacking of head coach Gregg Berhalter.

The USA remain the only team to have won the Concacaf Nations League since the tournament’s inception in 2019. However, this failure raises serious questions about their readiness for the 2026 World Cup.