Introduction
The rivalry between the Panama National Football Team, known as Los Canaleros, and the Mexico National Football Team, known as El Tri, has been a prominent fixture in CONCACAF football. Over the years, these two teams have faced off in various competitions, from World Cup qualifiers to the CONCACAF Gold Cup, delivering intense and memorable matches. This timeline highlights some of the most significant encounters between Panama and Mexico, showcasing the evolution of their rivalry.
Timeline of Key Matches
1. First Encounter – March 1993
The first official match between Panama and Mexico took place in March 1993 during the CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifiers. Mexico, a dominant force in the region, won the match 2-0. This set the tone for the early years of their rivalry, with Mexico often having the upper hand.
2. CONCACAF Gold Cup 2005 – July 2005
In the 2005 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Panama and Mexico met in a group stage match that ended in a 1-1 draw. Panama’s performance surprised many, as they were seen as underdogs against a strong Mexican side. This result demonstrated Panama’s growing competitiveness in the region.
3. 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup Semi-Final – July 2013
One of the most memorable matches between Panama and Mexico occurred in the semi-finals of the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Panama shocked Mexico with a 2-1 victory, thanks to goals from Blas Pérez and Román Torres. This win was significant for Panama as it marked their rise in CONCACAF, reaching their first Gold Cup final and proving they could challenge the traditional powerhouses.
4. 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup Semi-Final Controversy – July 2015
Another dramatic encounter took place in the semi-finals of the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup. The match was filled with controversy, particularly regarding the refereeing decisions. Panama led 1-0 until the 88th minute, when a controversial penalty was awarded to Mexico, leading to a 1-1 draw in regular time. Mexico eventually won 2-1 in extra time. This match remains one of the most talked-about games in CONCACAF history, fueling the rivalry between the two nations.
5. 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers – October 2017
During the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, Panama and Mexico faced off in a critical match. Mexico won 1-0, with a goal from Hirving Lozano. Despite the loss, Panama’s overall performance in the qualifiers was strong enough to secure their first-ever World Cup appearance in 2018. This was a significant moment for Panamanian football, showing their growth and resilience.
6. 2021 CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers – September 2021
In the 2021 World Cup qualifying campaign, Panama hosted Mexico in a match that ended in a 1-1 draw. Panama took the lead with a goal from Rolando Blackburn, but Mexico equalized through Jesús Corona. This result showed Panama’s continuous improvement and their ability to compete against the region’s top teams.
7. 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final – July 2023
The most recent and one of the most significant encounters between Panama and Mexico took place in the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup final. Mexico won 1-0, securing their ninth Gold Cup title. Despite the loss, Panama’s journey to the final and their strong performance against Mexico showed they are a rising force in CONCACAF, capable of challenging the region’s best teams.
Conclusion
The rivalry between the Panama National Football Team and the Mexico National Football Team has evolved significantly over the years. What started as a predictable matchup with Mexico often dominating has turned into a competitive rivalry with Panama continuously improving and challenging Mexico on the regional stage. From controversial moments to historic wins, the matches between these two teams are always filled with excitement and intensity. As both teams continue to grow, future encounters promise to deliver even more thrilling moments for fans.
5 FAQs About Panama vs. Mexico National Football Team Rivalry
When did Panama and Mexico’s national football teams first play against each other?
The first official match between Panama and Mexico took place in March 1993 during the CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifiers, with Mexico winning 2-0.
What was the outcome of the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup semi-final between Panama and Mexico?
Panama defeated Mexico 2-1 in the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup semi-final, marking a significant victory in their football history.
Why is the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup semi-final match between Panama and Mexico controversial?
The match is controversial due to questionable refereeing decisions, including a late penalty awarded to Mexico, which led to a 2-1 win for Mexico in extra time.
How did Panama perform in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mexico?
Panama lost 1-0 to Mexico in a crucial 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier, but they still managed to qualify for their first-ever World Cup that year.
Who won the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup final between Panama and Mexico?
Mexico won the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup final against Panama with a score of 1-0, securing their ninth Gold Cup title.
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