Waterman and Panama Stun USMNT in Nations League Semifinal
Panama shocked the US men's national team with a last-minute 1-0 victory in the CONCACAF Nations League semifinal on Thursday, ending America's dominance in a tournament they had won three consecutive times.
Despite controlling nearly 70% of possession and completing twice as many passes as their opponents, the USMNT failed to convert several golden opportunities. Josh Sargent hit the post early and had one goal disallowed, Weston McKennie had a point-blank header saved, and substitute Patrick Agyemang squandered two late chances. The Americans' one goal was ruled out after Tim Weah was deemed offside in the buildup.
Panama, employing a disciplined defensive strategy, stunned the hosts in the 94th minute when substitute Cecilio Waterman scored on Los Canaleros' only shot on target of the match. The goal came from a US turnover, with Waterman firing a diagonal shot past goalkeeper Matt Turner from 15 yards out.
"We're still building our identity, but this was a tough loss," Christian Pulisic said after the match.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino was blunt in his assessment: "The first half, I think, was really painful, really painful to see. We didn't compete in the way that the game required."
Tyler Adams echoed this sentiment: "We need to look in the mirror before anything and just realize that when we have these type of games, we can't wait for something to happen. We have to make things happen."
This defeat continues a troubling trend for the USMNT against Panama in tournament play. Thomas Christiansen's side now has a 4-0-1 (WDL) record against the Americans in competitive fixtures.
The loss raises serious questions about the team's progress with the 2026 World Cup on home soil approaching. The Americans will face Canada in Sunday's third-place match, while Panama advances to the final against Mexico with a chance to win their first CONCACAF title.
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