Panama Secures Late Win, Defeats 10-Man USA 2-1 in Copa America Clash

In a dramatic Copa America encounter on Thursday night, Panama clinched a crucial 2-1 victory over a 10-man United States team, leaving the Americans in a precarious position unless they defeat Uruguay in their final Group C match.

The match turned early as Tim Weah’s 18th-minute red card forced the U.S. to play most of the game shorthanded. Despite this setback, Folarin Balogun put the U.S. ahead in the 22nd minute, only for César Blackman to equalize just four minutes later.

Panama’s decisive goal came in the 83rd minute when Jose Fajardo beat substitute goalkeeper Ethan Horvath, who had come on for the injured Matt Turner at halftime. This goal marked Panama’s third victory in 27 encounters against the United States.

The U.S., previously victorious against Bolivia, now faces a crucial match against Uruguay in Kansas City, Missouri, needing a win to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.

Panama, coming off a 3-1 loss to Uruguay, will conclude their group stage campaign against Bolivia, a team that had suffered 13 consecutive Copa America defeats before Thursday’s match against Uruguay.

The loss against Panama raises questions about the future of U.S. coach Gregg Berhalter, particularly if the team fails to advance in what is seen as a significant test ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Despite late efforts, including a disallowed goal and a late red card to Panama’s Adalberto Carrasquilla, the U.S. couldn’t find the equalizer. A frantic final push, including goalkeeper Horvath joining the attack, was thwarted by Panama’s resolute defense.

The match saw several contentious moments, including Weston McKennie’s disallowed early goal for offside and VAR interventions that impacted the game’s flow.

Matt Turner’s departure due to injury and subsequent substitution by Horvath highlighted the U.S.’s challenges, compounded by Weah’s early dismissal.

Panama’s Blackman and Balogun of the U.S. were key figures in their respective team’s performances, highlighting the competitive nature of the encounter.

The match, witnessed by a crowd of 59,145 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, showcased Panama’s resilience in overcoming a determined U.S. effort despite numerical superiority.

Overall, Panama’s strategic late goal proved decisive, leaving the U.S. with a do-or-die scenario against Uruguay to progress in the tournament.