Gold Cup: Panama stops USA in semifinals

The United States, the seven-time Gold Cup champions, missed out on the finals for the first time since 2015. Panama, on the other hand, is still waiting for its first title, having lost to the Americans in the finals in 2005 and 2013. “It’s everyone’s dream to reach this final. We had to struggle to get this win, but this is the best way to enjoy it,” said Panama’s Danish coach Thomas Christiansen after the win.

The score was 0-0 after regulation time at the Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. In extra time (99′), Ivan Anderson gave Panama the lead, while Jesus Ferreira (105′) saved the USA on a penalty. Adalberto Carrasquilla converted the winning penalty after Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera saved Ferreira and Cristian Roldan. The U.S. is missing stars like Giovani Reina (Borussia Dortmund), Christian Pulisic to AC Milan and Weston McKenney (Juventus Turin).

Mexico defeated Jamaica

Meanwhile, Mexico beat Jamaica 3-0 at the Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, near Las Vegas, thanks to goals from Henry Martin (2), Luis Chavez (30) and Roberto Alvarado (93). Interim coach Jaime Lozano’s team aims for a ninth Gold Cup title in Sunday’s final in Inglewood; Mexican players last won in 2019. In 2021, Mexico lost the final against the United States.

The Gold Cup is the continental competition of the umbrella organization CONCACAF for teams from North and Central America and the Caribbean. This year’s hosts are the United States and Canada.