INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat at the hands of Panama in a CONCACAF Nations League semifinal, played at SoFi Stadium on March 20, 2025. The match marked one of the most frustrating moments for the team under head coach Mauricio Pochettino, as they displayed an uninspired performance, which left many fans and experts disappointed just 14 months ahead of their hosting duties for the World Cup.
The Americans entered the match as heavy favorites, being the reigning champions of the Nations League, having previously won all three editions since its establishment in 2019. However, they stumbled against Panama, a team under head coach Thomas Christiansen that has now managed to defeat the USMNT in three consecutive competitive matches, following victories in the 2023 Gold Cup semifinal and last year's Copa America group stage.
The tension in the stadium was palpable, with fans booing the team off the pitch at halftime after a scoreless first half that saw no genuine attacking threat from the Americans. Pochettino lamented their lack of aggression, stating, "The way we approached the game and started the game wasn’t in the right way. We played too slow. We didn’t show aggression with the ball. The first half was really painful to see.”
In a surprising twist, the dramatic moment came in stoppage time when Panama's Cecilio Waterman, a 33-year-old striker currently playing professionally in Chile, scored the winner in the 94th minute. Waterman's goal not only sealed the deal for Panama but also set off jubilant celebrations on the field, as he famously celebrated in front of renowned football star Thierry Henry, who was present for the match. Waterman reflected on his emotional moment, saying, "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."
The defeat has raised concerns about the USMNT's readiness for the upcoming World Cup, particularly with this match being one of the few competitive fixtures before the tournament begins in June 2026. Weston McKennie, a midfielder for the national team, pointed out the lack of fight in their game, mentioning that they have “relinquished our grip on regional supremacy.”
Despite having several opportunities in the first half, including a shot from Josh Sargent that struck the post, the Americans failed to convert any of their chances. Sargent appeared to score in the 24th minute, but the goal was ruled offside due to a previous infraction in the buildup. The team was also missing key players, as full backs Sergino Dest and Antonee Robinson were sidelined with injuries, placing additional pressure on the remaining squad members.
The impact of this loss is severe as it signifies a regression for the USMNT, who was aiming to revamp their game under Pochettino after they part ways with previous head coach Gregg Berhalter this past winter. Berhalter was dismissed following a disappointing performance in the Copa America, where the U.S. was eliminated after losing to Panama 2-1, playing most of the match with 10 men. This latest defeat against Panama presents an unsettling return to familiar patterns of underachievement.
Looking ahead, the USMNT will need to regroup quickly, with their next competition being a third-place match scheduled for March 23, 2025, where they will face the loser of the game between Mexico and Canada. Pochettino has suggested a reevaluation of strategies and tactics as they prepare for these crucial matches leading to the World Cup, noting the urgency to instill “the grit, the desire, the nastiness” needed to reclaim their former position.
In contrast, Panama will be taking the momentum into the final against Mexico, who secured their spot by defeating Canada 2-0 in the late match on the same day. This CONCACAF Nations League title is particularly significant as it marks the first time the trophy will not remain in the U.S.
The U.S. men’s national team will have to address their weaknesses and find a way to energize their ranks. With limited training opportunities before the World Cup, their road ahead is decidedly tricky. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely as this storied program attempts to find its footing again following this bitter setback.
