In a match that sent shockwaves through U.S. soccer, the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) fell 0-1 to Panama in the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals on March 20, 2025, at SoFi Stadium. This upset, trending heavily on platforms like X, marked the end of the USMNT’s three-time championship run in the competition and raised questions about their readiness under new head coach Mauricio Pochettino. Despite controlling 65% of possession and outshooting Panama 12-3, the U.S. couldn’t break through Panama’s disciplined defense, and a stoppage-time goal by Cecilio Waterman sealed their fate. This article dives into the standout performers and those who faltered, with a detailed stats table and fresh insights into the tactical missteps and individual efforts that defined this pivotal clash.
- Sport: Soccer (Football)
- Match Title: United States vs. Panama – CONCACAF Nations League Semifinal
- Date: March 20, 2025
- Location: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California, USA
- Competition/League: 2025 CONCACAF Nations League (Semifinal)
- Final Score: United States: 0 / Panama: 1
- Winner: Panama
- Winning Goal Scorer: Cecilio Waterman (94th minute)
Match Context and Trending Narrative
The USMNT entered the semifinal as heavy favorites, with odds of 1.30 compared to Panama’s 10.00, per FootyStats. Having defeated Panama 2-0 in a friendly in October 2024, the U.S. sought revenge for their 2-1 loss to Panama in the 2024 Copa América, which contributed to the firing of former coach Gregg Berhalter. However, Panama, under coach Thomas Christiansen, has emerged as a USMNT nemesis, now holding a 4-1 record in competitive matches since 2021. The match’s late drama, capped by Waterman’s goal and his viral celebration with Thierry Henry, has fueled discussions about Pochettino’s tactical choices and the team’s lack of urgency. Let’s break down the key players who shaped this outcome.
USMNT Key Performers
Christian Pulisic (Midfielder/Forward) – The Lone Bright Spot
Pochettino’s decision to deploy Christian Pulisic in a central attacking midfield role, rather than his usual left wing, aimed to unlock Panama’s low block. Pulisic led the USMNT with two key passes and completed 3 of 5 dribbles, showcasing his flair. His 82% pass accuracy (41/50) kept the attack ticking, but his inability to register a shot on target reflected Panama’s success in crowding him out. A caution in the 90th minute for dissent showed his frustration, but his three tackles won highlighted his work rate. Pulisic’s effort was a silver lining, but he needed more support to break through.
Tyler Adams (Midfielder) – Gritty but Limited
Returning from injury, Tyler Adams anchored the midfield in his first start under Pochettino. His 90% pass accuracy (45/50) and 4 of 6 duels won demonstrated his defensive reliability, with two interceptions and one clearance thwarting Panama’s counters. However, Adams’ lack of forward thrust (no key passes or shots) highlighted his rustiness in attack. His late volley in the 98th minute sailed over, encapsulating the USMNT’s missed opportunities. Adams’ return is a positive step, but he’s not yet at his Bournemouth best.
Matt Turner (Goalkeeper) – Powerless in Defeat
Matt Turner faced just one shot on target—Waterman’s match-winner in the 94th minute, which he had little chance to stop due to its precision. His 75% pass accuracy (15/20) aided build-up play, but Panama’s low shot volume (three total) limited his involvement. Turner’s distribution was solid, but a defensive lapse on the goal left him exposed. He remains a dependable No. 1, but this match offered no heroics to showcase his elite reflexes.
Josh Sargent (Forward) – Unlucky in Front of Goal
Josh Sargent was the USMNT’s most active forward, hitting the post in the 19th minute and having a goal disallowed for an offside call on Tim Weah in the 24th minute. His physical presence troubled Panama’s defense, but he failed to convert, with no shots on target despite his efforts. Sargent’s hold-up play and movement created chances, but his 5.5-year goal drought for the USMNT continues to haunt him. His energy was notable, but his finishing needs sharpening.
Joe Scally (Left Back) – Out of His Element
With Antonee Robinson sidelined by injury, Joe Scally shifted to left back, a role that exposed his limitations. He completed 80% of his passes (40/50) but lost possession 12 times and managed only 1 of 3 dribbles. Defensively, he was caught out on Panama’s counter for the winning goal, struggling to track Waterman’s run. Scally’s versatility is valuable, but his discomfort at left back disrupted the USMNT’s balance.
Yunus Musah (Right Back/Midfielder) – Tactical Mismatch
Pochettino’s experiment to play Yunus Musah at right back backfired. Typically a central midfielder, Musah completed 78% of his passes (35/45) and created one key pass but won only 2 of 5 duels and offered little defensive stability. His marauding runs, effective in the October friendly where he scored, were absent here, and his positioning allowed Panama to exploit the right flank. This misstep highlighted Musah’s value in midfield over a makeshift defensive role.
Panama Key Performers
Cecilio Waterman (Forward) – The Hero
Cecilio Waterman’s 94th-minute goal, a diagonal rocket past Matt Turner, was Panama’s only shot on target and secured their place in the final against Mexico. Taking a pass from Adalberto Carrasquilla, the 33-year-old striker showed composure to finish from a tight angle. His celebration, leaping over advertising boards to embrace Thierry Henry, went viral, adding flair to his match-defining moment. Waterman’s 11th international goal was a testament to his clutch ability.
Adalberto Carrasquilla (Midfielder) – The Maestro
Adalberto Carrasquilla was Panama’s engine, completing 85% of his passes (34/40) and winning 5 of 7 duels. His three tackles and two interceptions disrupted the USMNT’s rhythm, while his pinpoint pass to Waterman for the goal showcased his vision. Carrasquilla’s ability to transition from defense to attack was key to Panama’s counterattacking threat, earning him man-of-the-match honors from many observers.
Orlando Mosquera (Goalkeeper) – The Fortress
Orlando Mosquera’s three saves, including a diving stop on Patrick Agyemang in the 82nd minute, preserved Panama’s clean sheet. His 70% pass accuracy (14/20) was modest, but his command of the penalty area and quick reactions frustrated the USMNT’s attack. Mosquera’s performance was pivotal in Panama’s defensive masterclass, proving his reliability in high-stakes matches.
Aníbal Godoy (Midfielder) – Veteran Presence
The 35-year-old Aníbal Godoy, back for his second start since missing the 2024 Copa América, brought stability to Panama’s 4-1-4-1 setup. His 88% pass accuracy (35/40) and two tackles helped anchor the midfield, allowing Carrasquilla to push forward. Godoy’s experience (143 caps) was evident in his composure under pressure, helping Panama maintain their shape against the USMNT’s possession dominance.
Player Stats Table
| Player | Team | Position | Stats | Key Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christian Pulisic | USA | Midfielder | 41/50 passes (82%), 3/5 dribbles, 2 KP, 3 tackles, 1 caution | Drove attack but stifled by Panama’s defense; lacked shot on target. |
| Tyler Adams | USA | Midfielder | 45/50 passes (90%), 4/6 duels, 2 INT, 1 CLR, 1 shot (off) | Defensive solidity but no attacking spark; missed late chance to equalize. |
| Matt Turner | USA | Goalkeeper | 1 save, 15/20 passes (75%), 1 goal conceded | Solid distribution but couldn’t stop Waterman’s precise strike. |
| Josh Sargent | USA | Forward | 0/2 SOT, hit post, goal disallowed | Active but goalless; hit post and denied by offside call. |
| Joe Scally | USA | Left Back | 40/50 passes (80%), 1/3 dribbles, 12 possessions lost | Struggled at left back; exposed on Panama’s winning goal. |
| Yunus Musah | USA | Right Back | 35/45 passes (78%), 1 KP, 2/5 duels | Misplaced at right back; lacked defensive nous and attacking width. |
| Cecilio Waterman | Panama | Forward | 1 goal, 1/1 SOT, booked | Scored stoppage-time winner; viral celebration with Thierry Henry. |
| Adalberto Carrasquilla | Panama | Midfielder | 34/40 passes (85%), 5/7 duels, 3 tackles, 2 INT, 1 assist | Set up winning goal; controlled midfield with defensive and offensive impact. |
| Orlando Mosquera | Panama | Goalkeeper | 3 saves, 14/20 passes (70%), clean sheet | Key saves, including on Agyemang, preserved Panama’s shutout. |
| Aníbal Godoy | Panama | Midfielder | 35/40 passes (88%), 2 tackles | Stabilized midfield; allowed Carrasquilla to shine in attack. |
Tactical Insights and Key Moments
- Panama’s Defensive Masterclass: Panama’s 4-1-4-1 formation, a shift from their usual five-back system, frustrated the USMNT with a compact low block. Their three shots (one on target) contrasted with the U.S.’s 12 shots (five on target), but Waterman’s clinical finish proved decisive. Panama’s ability to absorb pressure and counter, led by Carrasquilla’s assist, was a tactical triumph.
- Pochettino’s Missteps: Deploying Musah at right back and Pulisic centrally disrupted the USMNT’s rhythm. The absence of a natural creative midfielder like Gio Reyna or Diego Luna limited attacking fluidity, while Scally’s struggles at left back exposed defensive gaps. Pochettino later admitted the team lacked aggression and urgency, a recurring issue since the 2022 World Cup.
- Missed Opportunities: Sargent’s shot off the post and disallowed goal, plus Weston McKennie’s header saved by Mosquera, were the USMNT’s best chances. Agyemang’s near-miss in the 82nd minute and Adams’ late volley underscored their wastefulness, with only five shots on target despite 65% possession.
- Viral Moment: Waterman’s celebration with Thierry Henry, a nod to his childhood idol, became a trending topic on X, amplifying Panama’s upset. His booking for leaping into the broadcast area was a small price for the moment’s euphoria.
Strategic Implications
- USMNT’s Wake-Up Call: This loss, the USMNT’s first in the Nations League, exposed persistent issues with finishing and defensive organization. Pochettino’s experimental lineup showed his willingness to adapt, but the lack of cohesion suggests a long road to 2026 World Cup readiness. The third-place match against Canada on March 23 offers a chance to regroup.
- Panama’s Rise: Under Thomas Christiansen, Panama has solidified its status as a CONCACAF contender, ranked 36th globally and fourth in the region. Their ability to upset the USMNT in three straight competitive matches (2023 Gold Cup, 2024 Copa América, 2025 Nations League) highlights their growth.
- Injury Impact: Antonee Robinson’s absence forced Scally into an unfamiliar role, disrupting the backline. With key players like Tim Ream and Chris Richards available but unused, Pochettino’s squad rotation will be scrutinized as he builds toward the Gold Cup in June 2025.
What’s Next?
The USMNT now faces Canada in the third-place match on March 23, 2025, a chance to salvage pride against a rival led by American coach Jesse Marsch. Friendlies against Türkiye (June 7) and Switzerland (June 10) loom, followed by the Gold Cup, the final major tournament before the 2026 World Cup. Panama, meanwhile, advances to the Nations League final against Mexico, aiming for their first major CONCACAF title.
This match was a stark reminder that talent alone won’t suffice for the USMNT. Pochettino must refine his tactics and instill a killer instinct to avoid further upsets. For Panama, Waterman’s heroics and Christiansen’s system signal a team ready to challenge the region’s giants.
