CHESTER: Panama have beaten U.S. on penalties to claim third spot in CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Panama downed the U.S. in penalties (3-2) after the two played to a 1-1 draw at PPL Park on Saturday, claiming third place and relegating the USA to its worst Gold Cup finish in 15 years.
Backup goalkeeper Luis Mejia saved two penalties in the shootout, and an inspired Panamanian team ended a trying week with a medal.
In Wednesday’s semifinals, Panama was on the verge of beating Mexico despite being down to 10 men — until a disputed handball was called in the area. Mexico converted the penalty in stoppage time then scored on another penalty in extra time for the 2-1 win.
