The stage is set for a thrilling confrontation as the United States faces Panama in the semifinals of the CONCACAF Nations League 2024/25 on December 20, 2025. Fans can expect an electrifying match at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, where both teams will be eager to secure their spot in the finals.
The United States advanced to this point by defeating Jamaica with a convincing aggregate score of 5-2 in the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Panama overcame Costa Rica in a close contest, winning 3-2 to book their place in the semifinals. The stakes are high, not just for the immediate glory of reaching the finals but also as both teams look toward future international competitions, particularly the 2026 World Cup.
Kick-off for this anticipated match is scheduled for 5 PM Central Mexico Time (3 PM Pacific Time in Los Angeles, 6 PM in Panama, and 8 PM in Argentina). Fans across various countries can tune in through several channels. In Mexico, the game will be broadcast live on TUDN and can also be streamed on platforms like ViX Premium. Meanwhile, U.S. viewers can catch the action on CBS Golazo Network, Paramount+, and on the official CONCACAF YouTube channel.
"We want to win; it's no excuse, but what's important for us is the World Cup," said Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the U.S. team. His focus remains on preparing for the world stage, even as they seek to maintain their dominance in the CONCACAF region. The United States has won the tournament three times, and Pochettino aims for a fourth title under his leadership.
Pochettino emphasized the pressure that accompanies every international match: "Representing your country is the most you can experience; the pressure will always be the same." His squad includes key players Weston McKennie from Juventus and Christian Pulisic from AC Milan, though injuries to Antonee Robinson, Folarin Balogun, and Ricardo Pepi have posed challenges.
On the other side, Panama is also gearing up to make history. Coach Thomas Christiansen expressed that while securing World Cup qualification is a priority, making a strong statement in the CONCACAF Nations League is significant as well. "We have come to compete and do well. If we end up third, at least we've progressed, but right now, I want to be in that final, and to do that, we have to beat the United States," he said during a press conference.
The historical context of U.S. and Panama matches adds another layer of excitement; the two teams have faced each other 28 times, with the U.S. holding a slight advantage of 18 wins against Panama's 3. However, Panama has proven to be a tough opponent recently. They triumphed over the U.S. in the 2023 Gold Cup semifinals, which added to the pressure and high expectations surrounding this upcoming match.
As for possible lineups, the U.S. is expected to field a strong team, potentially featuring Matt Turner in goal, with defenders Tim Ream and Chris Richards, and midfielders Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie. Panama’s lineup might include Orlando Mosquera, José Córdoba, and César Blackman, who are essential in their quest to disrupt the U.S. game plan.
Both teams have trained hard leading up to this critical match. The U.S. squad, while losing some key players, remains confident in the depth of their roster. Panama, invigorated by their recent successes and driven by a sense of ambition, represents a serious challenge. Christiansen has encouraged his players to rise to the occasion.
For avid fans and neutrals alike, this match is set to be a spectacle of skill and determination. With the final imminent and both teams possessing the drive to win, supporters can be assured that the outcome will not only determine the finalists but also add another chapter to the storied rivalry between these two nations in football. As the teams take to the pitch, millions will be watching, eager to witness whether the U.S. can solidify its status as CONCACAF powerhouse or if Panama will pull off a historic upset.
In summary, as anticipation builds for the semifinal clash, it's clear that both the United States and Panama are poised to give it their all. With the broadcast accessible in multiple regions and the rich background of competition intensifying the stakes, fans can look forward to an incredible match.
