Panama delivered a shocking blow to the USA’s Copa America ambitions with a 2-1 victory in a stormy Group C battle in Atlanta on Thursday. The defeat leaves the host nation’s hopes of qualifying for the knockout rounds hanging by a thread.
The match, played in front of a packed stadium, was marred by a moment of madness in the 18th minute when US winger Timothy Weah was sent off. VAR revealed Weah striking Panama defender Roderick Miller in an off-the-ball incident, leading to a red card that drastically shifted the game’s momentum.
Despite being a man down, the USA took the lead in the 25th minute. A swift counterattack saw Christian Pulisic deliver a precise cross to Ricardo Pepi, who made no mistake from close range, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Panama, however, refused to be rattled. They equalized just before halftime through a stunning free-kick by Alberto Quintero that left US goalkeeper Matt Turner with no chance. The equalizer reignited Panama’s Copa campaign after their opening loss to Uruguay, bringing them back into contention.
The second half saw both teams pushing for a winner, but the physicality of the match reached a boiling point. In the 70th minute, Panama’s Fidel Escobar was shown a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Weston McKennie, leveling the playing field as both sides were reduced to 10 men.
With the match seemingly headed for a draw, Panama struck a decisive blow in the 85th minute. A defensive lapse allowed José Fajardo to break free and calmly slot the ball past Turner, sealing a famous victory for the Panamanians.
The final whistle brought scenes of jubilation for Panama, who now have a fighting chance to advance in the tournament. For the USA, the defeat means their fate in the Copa America hangs precariously, needing a win in their final group stage match to keep their knockout stage dreams alive.
US coach Gregg Berhalter expressed his disappointment post-match, emphasizing the need for discipline and composure in crucial moments. “We let ourselves down with the red card, and it changed the entire dynamic of the game,” Berhalter said. “We have to regroup and come back stronger in the next match.”
Panama coach Thomas Christiansen praised his team’s resilience and determination. “Our players showed incredible heart and character to come back from a goal down and win,” Christiansen noted. “This victory gives us a huge boost going into our final group game.”
The result sets up a nail-biting conclusion to Group C, with both Panama and the USA facing must-win situations in their upcoming matches. The drama and intensity of Copa America continue to captivate fans, promising more thrilling football action ahead.
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