Panama’s giant killers create soccer history against U.S.

Tiny Panama became a giant killer on Saturday June 11, when it defeated the United States for the first time in soccer history, to emerge top of its group  in the  CONCACAF Gold Cup 2011.

Against all predictions, with few giving little hope but patriotic fervor for the team coached by Julio Dely Valdes, the Panama eleven created the  upset of the tournament by defeating the favorites 2 for 1 to qualify for the quarterfinals. Many streets in Panama were unusually quiet for a Saturday evening, as fans packed local sports bars to cheer their team to victory.

Panama's goals were scored by Luis Tejada El Matador who put Panama ahead after 19 minutes  an El Gavilán Gomez  with a penalty after 36 minutes, putting the unfavored Central Amaerican minnows 2-0 up on the sharks from the north.

Clarence Goodson scored for the U.S. in the 66th minute. {jathumbnail off}

From then on the Americans tried everything they had in the closing minutes, but  superb defense,dazzling footwork and speedy counter attacks  by the Panamanians, ensured their victory and a place in the quarter finals.

Matador was voted player of  the game.
It was the first victory over a U.S. senior team in the football history of Panama.
In the last four clashes with the U.S. in the Gold Cup, Panama’s best achievement was a draw. They have played the U.S.  eight times before without  being able to register a victory.

This time Panama  ended a  United States 26-game unbeaten streak which  has not lost a match in a group stage in the 11 editions of the Gold Cup.
Panama ends its participation in the first stage Group C on against Canada, which on Saturday defeated Guadalupe 1-0  but lost its opening game to the U.S.

Canada has not beaten the U.S. for 25 years.

Panama leads the group with six points, followed by the USA and Canada both with three. Guadalupe with no points is out of contention.

Panama meets Canada at 6 p.m. Tuesday, and if Saturday evening’s street clearing event is a measure, the game should help ease the rush hour.  With many people being paid on Tuesday, the sports bars will be in for a profitable evening.