Panama secure historic quarter-final spot in Copa America
ORLANDO: Panama made history on Monday by defeating Bolivia 3-1, clinching a spot in the Copa America quarter-finals for the first time. The victory placed Panama second in Group C, behind Uruguay, and eliminated tournament hosts the United States.
This is only Panama’s second appearance in the Copa America, and their success in advancing to the knockout stage marks a significant milestone for the team. The win propelled Panama to six points, three ahead of the U.S., who were ousted after a 1-0 loss to Uruguay, the group winners with nine points.
Goals from Jose Fajardo, Eduardo Guerrero, and Cesar Yanis secured Panama’s victory. Bolivia’s sole goal came from Bruno Miranda, but it wasn’t enough to save them from an early exit after three consecutive losses, during which they conceded 10 goals and scored just one.
The match’s breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when Cristian Martinez set up Fajardo. The 30-year-old forward expertly controlled Martinez’s header into the box, let it bounce, and volleyed it past Bolivia’s goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra, setting the tone for Panama’s dominant performance.(Reuters)
