USMNT shocked in Concacaf Nations League semifinals, lose 1-0 to Panama in huge upset

The United States men’s national team were shocked in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals on Thursday, falling 1-0 to Panama thanks to a stoppage-time goal by Cecilio Waterman. The Americans had their chances but were wasteful all night, failing to take the lead in a game that they controlled for the majority.  The USMNT had chances with Josh Sargent hitting the post and Patrick Agyemang testing the keeper off the bench but they weren’t able to break down Thomas Christiansen’s 5-4-1 to get an eventual winner.

It’s a flashback to Copa America where the United States also lost to Panama during the group stage,leading to crashing out of that tournament. They’ll need to show growth between now and Sunday when they’ll face either Canada or Mexico in the third-place game of this competition.

Given that it’ll be a rival that they’ll face in that match, it will be a meaningful experience even with it not being for a trophy. 

The result means the U.S. won’t win the competition for the first time in history, taking a step back in a competition that was supposed to be a springboard ahead of the 2026 World Cup.