Panama vs Guatemala Sports Update: 1-1 Draw in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
September 9, 2025 – Relive the action from the intense CONCACAF showdown
The highly anticipated CONCACAF World Cup Qualifier between Panama and Guatemala ended in a thrilling 1-1 draw at Estadio Rommel Fernández in Panama City on September 9, 2025. This match, part of Group A in the third round, saw both teams fighting for crucial points in their quest for 2026 World Cup qualification. Despite Panama’s strong home record, Guatemala’s resilience earned them a valuable point on the road.
Match Summary
The game kicked off at 01:30 UTC (9:30 PM ET on September 8), drawing a passionate crowd to the 23,000-capacity stadium. Panama, ranked 2nd in the group, entered unbeaten in their last five qualifiers, while Guatemala, in 4th place, sought to bounce back from a 0-1 loss to El Salvador. The first half was intense and end-to-end, with both sides creating chances. Panama dominated possession at 68.3%, but Guatemala’s defense held firm.
Key Moments
- 35′ – Guatemala Goal: Óscar Santis opened the scoring for the visitors with a clinical finish, capitalizing on a quick counter-attack. This marked his second goal in recent qualifiers.
- 37′ – Panama Equalizer: Carlos Harvey leveled the score just two minutes later with a powerful strike from outside the box, igniting the home crowd.
- Second Half Action: Panama pressed for a winner, registering 7 shots (3 on target) compared to Guatemala’s 4 (1 on target). Substitutions like Ismael Díaz for Panama added energy, but neither side could break the deadlock.
- Yellow Cards: Óscar Santis (Guatemala, 35′) and Carlos Harvey (Panama, 37′) were cautioned early, setting a competitive tone.
The draw leaves Panama with 2 points from two matches (a 0-0 vs. Suriname prior), while Guatemala has 1 point after their opening defeat. Both teams remain in contention, but the race in Group A intensifies with upcoming fixtures against stronger opponents like Jamaica.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Panama | Guatemala |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 68.3% | 31.7% |
| Shots on Goal | 3 | 1 |
| Shot Attempts | 7 | 4 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 1 |
| Corners | 5 | 3 |
Source: ESPN and VAVEL USA match reports.
Team News and Lineups
Panama (4-2-3-1)
Orlando Mosquera; Michael Murillo, Fidel Escobar, Andrés Andrade, Eric Davis; Aníbal Godoy, Adalberto Carrasquilla; Carlos Harvey, Ismael Díaz, Édgar Bárcenas; José Fajardo.
Coach: Thomas Christiansen. Key performers: Carlos Harvey (goal, assist potential) and Adalberto Carrasquilla in midfield control.
Guatemala (4-2-3-1)
Nicholas Hagen; Aarón Herrera, Nicolás Samayoa, José Pinto, José Morales; Stheven Robles, Jonathan
