Panama took a decisive step toward the quarterfinals of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Guatemala at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. A first-half strike by forward Tomás Rodríguez was enough to seal the win and position Panama as the temporary leaders of Group C.
Match Overview
Final Score: Guatemala 0 – 1 Panama
Goal: Tomás Rodríguez (19’)
Stadium: Q2 Stadium, Austin, TX
Referee Decision: Goal confirmed after brief VAR check
Player of the Match: Tomás Rodríguez
Panama entered the match riding the momentum of a 5-2 thrashing of Guadeloupe. Guatemala, under coach Luis Fernando Tena, came in with confidence after a 1-0 upset win over Jamaica. The match promised high intensity—and delivered.
How the Game Unfolded
The match opened with cautious exchanges, but Panama quickly gained control of possession. Their dominance paid off in the 19th minute when Murillo delivered a clinical pass to Tomás Rodríguez, who slotted the ball past Guatemala’s goalkeeper Hagen for the only goal of the match.
Though VAR briefly reviewed the play, the goal stood, putting Panama ahead early. Guatemala tried to respond with aggressive play on the wings and shots from Santis, but Panamanian keeper Mosquera rose to the occasion with several critical saves throughout the match.
In the second half, Panama strategically slowed the tempo, holding possession and frustrating Guatemala’s efforts to find an equalizer. Despite multiple substitutions—including the entrance of Ordóñez, José Rosales, and Olger Escobar—Guatemala could not break through Panama’s organized defense.
Key Second-Half Highlights
62’: Guatemala introduces Ordóñez and Escobar in hopes of sparking attack
69’: Panama’s Guerrero nearly scores with his first touch—denied by Hagen
72’: Yellow card issued to Guatemala’s Pedro Altán for a tactical foul
78’: Guatemala’s long ball effort easily handled by Mosquera
Current Group C Standings (After Match)
Panama – 6 points
Jamaica – 3 points
Guatemala – 3 points
Guadeloupe – 0 points
Note: Jamaica defeated Guadeloupe earlier in the day.
Milestone for Panama
The night was historic for Aníbal Godoy, who became Panama’s all-time caps leader with 148 appearances for the national team. A key veteran figure, Godoy’s presence was vital in controlling the midfield.
What's Next?
With six points from two matches, Panama is on the verge of securing a quarterfinal berth. They will head into their final group stage game with confidence and tactical clarity. Guatemala, now facing pressure, must regroup quickly and win their last match to keep hopes of progression alive.
The 2025 Gold Cup continues to deliver drama and passion—and Panama, once again, has shown why they remain one of the region’s elite contenders.