USMNT Falls 1-0 to Panama in Concacaf Nations League; Mexico Advances by Defeating Canada 2-0
A recap of the shocking loss of the US national team to Panama in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals, with Mexico reaching the final.
Happy Friday for Panama and Mexico! I’m bringing you the latest on a dramatic set of semifinals in the Concacaf Nations League that has set the stage for a first-time champion on Sunday.
📺 Footy Fix
All times U.S./Eastern
Friday, March 21
- 🌎 WCQ: Uruguay vs. Argentina, 7:30 p.m. ➡️ Fanatiz
- 🇺🇸 NWSL: Portland Thorns vs. Angel City, 10 p.m. ➡️ Amazon Prime Video
Saturday, March 22
- 🏴 WSL: Arsenal vs. Liverpool, 1:30 p.m. ➡️ ESPN+
- 🇺🇸 MLS: FC Cincinnati vs. Atlanta United, 2:30 p.m. ➡️ MLS Season Pass
- 🇺🇸 NWSL: Washington Spirit vs. Kansas City Current, 7:30 p.m. ➡️ Ion
Sunday, March 23
- 🇺🇸 NWSL: Chicago Stars vs. Houston Dash, 3 p.m. ➡️ Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo Network
- 🇪🇺 UNL: Germany vs. Italy, 3:45 p.m. ➡️ FS2
- 🌎 CNL: Canada vs. USMNT, 6 p.m. ➡️ Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo Network
- 🏆 CNL: Mexico vs. Panama, 9:30 p.m. ➡️ Paramount+
⚽ The Forward Line
🇺🇸 USMNT Loses to Panama – Again
The U.S. men’s national team has seen their bid to win a fourth Concacaf Nations League title come to an end after a shocking 1-0 defeat to Panama, raising concerns about the capability of the “golden generation” as the World Cup approaches.
Despite controlling the match and outshooting Panama 12 to 3, the lack of adjustment to Panama’s strategy was evident. They managed only 0.68 expected goals, with Tim Ream suggesting this sluggish response stemmed from surprise at the opposition’s approach. Coach Mauricio Pochettino emphasized the need for greater competitive spirit, pointing to similar issues that plagued their Copa America run the previous summer.
🔗 Midfield Link Play
🇲🇽 Mexico Outshines Canada
Meanwhile, Mexico’s performance was a contrast, showcasing eagerness and efficiency in their 2-0 win over Canada, making them favorites for their first title. Raul Jimenez opened the scoring early, solidifying Mexico’s recent turnaround in form.
As the USMNT prepares for their next match against Canada, questions remain about their capacity to maintain energy and aggression to compete at the highest level.
