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Cecilio Waterman Shines as Panama Upsets USMNT in Historic Nations League Victory
In a thrilling match at SoFi Stadium, Cecilio Waterman scored a last-minute winner to lead Panama to a stunning 1-0 victory over the U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals, cementing his place as a national hero.
On Thursday, March 20, 2025, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, Panama’s Cecilio Waterman delivered a career-defining moment by scoring a breathtaking goal in the fourth minute of injury time, leading his team to a narrow victory against the USMNT. This remarkable win not only secures Panama’s spot in the Nations League final but also deepens their competitive history against the U.S., showcasing their growing prowess in international soccer.
Key Highlights from the Match
- Cecilio Waterman scored the only goal of the match during injury time, bringing his total international goals to 11.
- Waterman’s goal was Panama’s only shot on target throughout the game.
- This victory marks Panama’s third consecutive win over the U.S. in competitive matches.
- Panama will face either Mexico or Canada in the Nations League final on Sunday.
A Moment to Remember
In a celebratory moment that left the SoFi Stadium crowd in awe, Waterman, after scoring, leaped onto a broadcast stage to celebrate with his idol, Thierry Henry. “You are my idol!” he exclaimed in Spanish, a display of emotion that resonated with fans and players alike.
Coach’s Perspective
Panama’s coach, Thomas Christiansen, praised his team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of tactical discipline and a bit of luck. “The only way to beat the U.S. is with tactical discipline and order,” he stated. “It was our time, and we made it count.”
Historical Context and Future Prospects
This victory is particularly significant as it marks Panama’s ascent in soccer, having previously lost the Gold Cup final at the same stadium just months earlier. Waterman’s goal not only represents personal triumph for him but also a promising future for Panama in international play.
Reflecting on the win, Waterman expressed his desire to bring joy to his country: “This time, we want to give that gift to Panama. We want to achieve something for them, for Central America.”
As the Concacaf Nations League trophy prepares to crown a new champion, one thing is certain: this remarkable match will be remembered as a historic turning point for Panamanian soccer.
As they head into the final, Panama looks poised to continue their remarkable journey in the tournament.
Conclusion: With their stunning victory over the USMNT, Panama has not only claimed a coveted spot in the Nations League final but has also etched a significant chapter in their soccer history. As excitement builds for the final match, fans eagerly anticipate what this resilient team will achieve next.
Keywords: Cecilio Waterman, Panama soccer, US Men’s National Team, Concacaf Nations League, soccer upset
Hashtags: #CecilioWaterman #PanamaSoccer #USMNT #NationsLeague #SoccerHistory
