Panama Edges Closer to Gold Cup 2025 Quarterfinals with Win Over Guatemala

Panama Edges Closer to Gold Cup Quarterfinals with Win Over Guatemala

21.06.2025 10:15

In a thrilling display of determination and skill, Panama's national football teamched a crucial 1-0 victory against Guatemala. Despite dominating the game, they found themselves entangled in a web of missed opportunities. With this win, Panama catapults to six points, proudly leading Group C and inching ever closer to the coveted Gold Cup quarterfinals.

The match saw Panama establish a clear path to victory, now sitting atop the group, shadowed by Guatemala and Jamaica, both clutching three points. The Reggae Boyz had earlier edged out Guadeloupe with a narrow 2-1 triumph, keeping their competitive fire alive.

As the group stages unfold, Panama is set to lock horns with Jamaica on Tuesday, June 24, at the Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, at 6 p.m. local time. The stakes are high, but a mere draw will suffice to secure Panama's advancement. On the other hand, Guatemala faces off against Guadeloupe, needing a standout performance to stay in the race.

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Only the top two teams from each group will proceed to the quarterfinals, where Panama's group contenders are slated to battle the frontrunners from Group B, including powerhouses like Canada, El Salvador, Honduras, and Curacao.

Match Highlights

From the first whistle, Panama showcased their intent, orchestrating play with precision and flair. Their relentless pursuit bore fruit in the 19th minute as Fidel Escobar orchestrated a masterstroke, delivering a pinpoint pass to Michael Amir Murillo. With a deft header, Murillo set up Tomás Rodríguez, who netted decisively with his right foot, sending the ball sailing into the net.

Guatemala's offensive power seemed muted in the first half, yet Óscar Santis emerged as a beacon of hope, threatening Panama's defenses twice. But the ever-vigilant goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera stood tall, ensuring Panama's slender lead remained untouched.

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The closing half saw Panama's unyielding quest for more goals, only to be continuously thwarted by an impressive Nicholas Hagen guarding Guatemala's posts. As the clock ticked down, Guatemala's desperation mounted, mounting a fierce bid for an equalizer. Yet, Panama's defense stood resilient, sealing their well-earned victory and leaving fans breathless with anticipation for what lies ahead.