Panama Seeks Redemption Against Mexico in Concacaf Nations League Final

CIUDAD DE MÉXICO, México – Panama‘s national soccer team is gearing up for a chance at redemption against Mexico in the Concacaf Nations League final on Sunday, following a string of defeats in recent matchups. Coaches Thomas Christiansen of Panama and Javier Aguirre of Mexico shared their thoughts during a press conference on Saturday.

In their last five encounters, Mexico has defeated Panama on all occasions, including four matches in previous Nations League editions and the final of the 2023 Gold Cup, where Mexico clinched the title with a 1-0 victory.

“Stats can be taken or left, but we must capitalize on the numbers that benefit us. After so many matches, it could be a good time to change these statistics,” Christiansen stated, emphasizing his team’s readiness to break the losing streak. He added, “I believe our team is mentally in better shape than before, and we hope to replicate the focus and determination displayed against the United States last Thursday.”

Panama advanced to the final after a narrow 1-0 victory against the reigning champions, the United States, thanks to a goal from Cecilio Waterman. Meanwhile, Mexico earned its spot in the final, defeating Canada 2-0, with Raúl Jiménez scoring both goals.

The Nations League final will take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Aguirre remarked on the unique nature of the matchup: “The opponent matters, and facing a rival eager for revenge makes them doubly dangerous. We can strategize and prepare for the game, but there are always variables that are out of our control.”

Historically, Mexico has the upper hand in this rivalry, with 22 wins, six draws, and only two losses in 30 meetings between the two teams.