In an electrifying showdown on Thursday, March 20, 2025, the Panama national football team made history by defeating the United States 1-0 in the semifinals of the Concacaf Nations League, thanks to a dramatic last-minute goal from Cecilio Waterman. The match took place at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, a venue typically reserved for American football.
With euphoric fans and uncertain hopes riding on the match, Waterman realized the ultimate dream when he scored in stoppage time, sending his team to the final against Mexico. The Panamanian striker, playing with Coquimbo Unido, celebrated his goal in an unforgettable manner that has captivated the football world.
After making the goal, Waterman dashed towards the CBS Sports set, where the legendary Thierry Henry was providing commentary. “Tu es mon idole!” he exclaimed, pointing directly at Henry before engulfing him in a passionate embrace. This heartwarming display caught not only Henry off guard but also left his fellow commentators, including Clint Dempsey and Maurice Edu, in a moment of comedic confusion.
Henry, a former striker renowned for his time with Arsenal and the French national team, admitted that he was taken aback by the exuberance of Waterman's celebration. “I didn’t know what to do. I never thought I’d be part of a celebration like that without even being on the pitch!” he remarked. He added that he was relieved he understood Spanish when Waterman shouted that he was his idol. Henry described the scene as special, one that he would cherish forever and share with his children, as he witnessed Waterman’s sheer joy.
Reflecting on the memorable exchange, Waterman explained, “Last night, they asked me who my childhood idol was, and I said Thierry Henry… I scored, saw you, and knew I had to come say hi.” This authenticity and spontaneity characterized the moment, transforming it into an emblem of the passion and emotion that football can ignite.
The Panamanian team’s historic victory not only marked their advancement to the final but also ended the USA’s undefeated streak in the Concacaf Nations League, where they had triumphed in all previous editions since its inception in 2019. A disappointing evening for U.S. Coach Mauricio Pochettino, who faced his first significant defeat at the helm of the national squad, contrasted sharply with Waterman’s triumph.
After the game, as a gesture of appreciation for the emotional encounter, Waterman gifted Henry his signed jersey, to which Henry responded by promising to send him an Arsenal shirt. “This celebration is the best I’ve ever seen,” Henry said, emphasizing how the spontaneity of the moment left a profound impression on him.
Now, with Panama set to face Mexico in the Concacaf Nations League final on Monday, March 24, at 2:30 AM French time, it’s evident that Waterman's goal and his celebration with Henry will remain in the annals of football history. The Panamanian squad, who had never before advanced beyond the group stage of this tournament, is now poised to compete for the championship, creating a narrative of hope and inspiration for their supporters.
In an age dominated by negativity and disappointment in sports, the joyful embrace shared between Waterman and Henry reminds everything that football is about—dreams, inspiration, and emotional connections that transcend even the biggest match stages.
As the world watches, Panama hopes to continue their Cinderella story, and if Waterman’s jubilant celebration is any indication, there’s a spark of magic that could lead them to glory.
