Panama ties, jeopardizes qualification to quarter-finals

For the first time since 1983, Panama's qualification to CONCACAF (Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Football Association) Gold Cup is in risk after the 1-1 draw result against the United States, media reported Tuesday.

According to Cuban news agency Prensa Latina, after three consecutive draws in the first round of Gold Cup, Panama jeopardizes its qualification to quarter finals.

Local media on Tuesday said fans expressed concern and disappointment for the situation of Panama's national team, who will have to wait for the results of the other groups to know its future in the regional tournament.

In a game played last Monday in Kansas City, Panama's Blas Perez scored at the 33rd minute but then Michael Bradley scored the equalizer at the 55th minute.

Local daily La Prensa said Panama has shown lack of coordination due to several changes in the players' positions caused by injuries and suspensions.

Local press has also questioned "the bad lineup" of coach Hernan Gomez.

On the other hand, other local sports experts have said the game against the U.S. was intense and even, with a better performance of the Panamanian squad.

The surprise in Group A is Haiti, which defeated Honduras, a team with more international experience.

With these results in Group A, U.S. ends the first round with seven points, followed by Haiti (4) and Panama (3).

Panama has to wait for the results of Group B after Tuesday's games between Costa Rica and Canada and El Salvador against already qualified Jamaica. Endi