Canada Advances to the Concacaf Nations League Final After Beating Panama 2-0
Ready for the Final
Mexico City / June 15, 2023 – Canada secured their spot as the first finalist of the Concacaf Nations League after beating Panama 2-0 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. The team from the Maple Leaf had a dominant performance against the canaleros, who had few opportunities to score.
Canada’s Strong Start
Canada started the match calmly but was quick to take control of the game. By the 24th minute, Jonathan David scored the opening goal after receiving a perfectly timed pass from Kamal Miller and taking on defender Orlando Mosquera. The Panamanians tried to respond, with Ismael Diaz taking a long shot, but it was saved by Canadian goalkeeper Milan Borjan.
A Solid Defense
Canada’s defense continued to hold strong, with Borjan making crucial saves, including one from Fidel Escobar’s free kick that led to a missed opportunity for Panama’s Cecilio Waterman. Goal actions began to dwindle, and it was not until the second half that the game saw any major action.
Canada Secures Their Victory
In the second half, Harold Cummings had a chance to score from close range, but his shot missed the mark. Canada responded at 58′ with Tajon Buchanan on the right side hitting a precise cross to Cyle Larin, but Mosquera saved the shot. Canada continued to dominate, and at 69′, Alfonso Davies scored Canada’s second goal with a left-footed shot that Mosquera had no chance of saving.
Panama’s Late Attempts
Panama made some desperate attempts to score, with Adalberto Carrasquilla taking a long shot at 71′ that was saved by Borjan. However, the team was unable to break through Canada’s solid defense. Panama’s Eric Davis was eventually sent off, leaving the team with 10 men, adding insult to injury for the canaleros.
Looking Forward to the Final Match
Canada awaits their rival in the final match, which will be between Mexico and the United States. For now, they can celebrate their well-deserved victory and look forward to what promises to be a highly-anticipated final.