In a jaw-dropping finish that had fans shaking their heads and swapping conspiracy theories, Panama delivered a stunning 1-0 upset over the U.S. Men’s National Team in the CONCACAF Nations League semifinal. Cecilio Waterman, channeling the spirit of every underdog player who’s ever crushed a national team, scored the only goal in the fourth minute of second-half injury time, brilliantly executing a right-footed shot that left goalkeeper Matt Turner wondering if he’d mistakenly walked into a comedy club.

This wasn’t just a lucky break; it marked Panama’s third consecutive victory over the Americans in recent competitive play. Talk about a grudge match! Waterman’s goal, only the team’s one shot on target during the entire match, felt like a slap in the face to a U.S. squad that’s been coasting on its reputation like a trust-fund kid riding a wave of privilege.

After the game, Waterman celebrated like he’d just found a WiFi signal in the heart of the Pacific, hurdling advertising boards and sharing a stage moment with soccer legend Thierry Henry. Seriously, the amazement on Henry’s face could have powered a few thousand memes. Speaking of memes, remember when Greg Berhalter was just the coach? Now it’s Mauricio Pochettino’s turn to take the heat after this colossal stumble.

The game itself was a mixed bag as the U.S. struggled to find their rhythm. Fans held their breath as Tyler Adams nearly equalized in the dying seconds, only to see his shot sail wide like so many other opportunities that night. It’s almost like they’d been possessed by the spirit of classic American sports underachievement, quite the spooky vibe!

But let’s not be the haters here. Panama’s win is a reminder that every dog has its day, and for Panama, this moment was absolutely historic. The CONCACAF Nations League trophy is leaving the U.S. for the first time since 2019, and boy, did the American squad just kick their chances of winning down the road.

As we gear up for the World Cup, one has to wonder what magic Pochettino can work with just five training camps available before the big dance. Can the U.S. Men’s Team shake off this embarrassment and pull themselves together? One can only hope! Or not. It’s all entertainment, right?

Let’s raise a glass to the underdogs! Here’s to more unexpected surprises on the field and deeper conversations about what needs to change off it.