By admin 
The highly anticipated match between the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) and Panama in the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup Semifinal took place on July 12, 2023, at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California. This thrilling encounter showcased the skills and determination of both teams as they battled for a spot in the final. In this article, we will delve into the lineup notes and key highlights from the game, providing you with a comprehensive overview of this exciting contest.
The Starting XI
The USMNT’s Starting XI against Panama comprised a talented group of players who were determined to secure a victory. Led by captain Matt Turner, the lineup included Aaron Long, Bryan Reynolds, Gianluca Busio, James Sands, Jesús Ferreira, Cade Cowell, Miles Robinson, Djordje Mihailovic, DeJuan Jones, and Brandon Vazquez. These players showcased their skills and represented their country with pride and determination.
Notable Substitutes
The USMNT also had a strong bench, with several notable substitutes ready to make an impact if called upon. Among them were Sean Johnson, Gaga Slonina, DeAndre Yedlin, Matt Miazga, Cristian Roldan, Jordan Morris, Alex Zendejas, Jalen Neal, John Tolkin, Julian Gressel, and Jackson Yueill. The depth and versatility of the USMNT squad were on full display, providing options for Head Coach Gregg Berhalter as the game progressed.
The Match and Goal Scorers
The game between the USMNT and Panama was intense from the first whistle to the last. Both teams displayed excellent tactical awareness and fought hard for control of the match. The USMNT showcased their attacking prowess, with notable performances from Cade Cowell, Jesús Ferreira, and Djordje Mihailovic, who all made significant contributions to the team’s offensive efforts.
In terms of goal scorers, the USMNT found the back of the net through various players throughout the tournament. In this specific match, the goal scorers were not mentioned, but it is worth noting that the USMNT had a diverse range of goal scorers throughout the Concacaf Gold Cup.
USMNT Cap Numbers and Achievements
It’s essential to acknowledge the achievements of the players who represented the USMNT in this crucial match. Aaron Long, Matt Turner, Miles Robinson, Jesús Ferreira, Gianluca Busio, James Sands, Djordje Mihailovic, Cade Cowell, Brandon Vazquez, Bryan Reynolds, and DeJuan Jones all added to their cap numbers in this game. These players have been instrumental in the success of the USMNT, showcasing their talent and dedication to the sport.
Youthful Lineup
The USMNT fielded a lineup with an average age of 24 years and 202 days, making it the seventh youngest lineup used in a knockout round match. This statistic highlights the emphasis that the USMNT has placed on developing young talents and integrating them into the national team setup. The continuous infusion of young players into the squad ensures a promising future for U.S. soccer and strengthens the team’s chances of success in major tournaments.
| Youngest USMNT Lineups in Knockout Round Matches | ||||
| Date | Average Age | Score | Competition | |
| June 3, 2021 | 23 years, 215 days | 1-0 W vs. Honduras | Nations League Semifinal | |
| July 25, 2021 | 23 years, 280 days | 1-0 W vs. Jamaica | Gold Cup Quarterfinal | |
| July 29, 2021 | 23 years, 284 days | 1-0 W vs. Qatar | Gold Cup Semifinal | |
| June 18, 2023 | 23 years, 314 days | 2-0 W vs. Canada | Nations League Final | |
| June 15, 2023 | 23 years, 327 days | 3-0 W vs. Mexico | Nations League Semifinal | |
| July 9, 2023 | 24 years, 187 days | 2-2 D (3-2 PK) vs. Canada | Gold Cup Quarterfinal | |
| July 12, 2023 | 24 years, 202 days | vs. Panama | Gold Cup Semifinal | |
| June 6, 2021 | 24 years, 207 days | 3-2 W (AET) vs. Mexico | Nations League Final | |
| Aug. 1, 2021 | 24 years, 236 days | 1-0 W (AET) vs. Mexico | Gold Cup Final | |
| Dec. 3, 2022 | 25 years, 86 days | 1-3 L vs. Netherlands | World Cup Round of 16 | |
The Young and Promising Lineup
The USMNT’s lineup against Panama featured seven starters aged 24 or younger, highlighting the team’s commitment to fostering young talent. Djordje Mihailovic and Brandon Vazquez, both 24 years old, were joined by James Sands (23), Jesús Ferreira and Bryan Reynolds (22), Gianluca Busio (21), and Cade Cowell (19). This youthful combination of skill and potential bodes well for the future of U.S. soccer.
Notable Changes and First Start for Vazquez
Head coach B.J. Callaghan made three changes to the lineup compared to the previous match against Canada. Defender Aaron Long and forwards Cade Cowell and Brandon Vazquez were inserted into the starting XI. This demonstrates Callaghan’s strategic approach to adapt the team’s tactics based on the opponent and the specific requirements of the match.
Brandon Vazquez, who had previously made a significant impact as a substitute in the Gold Cup, scoring three goals, earned his first start of the tournament. The fact that he was able to do so in his hometown of San Diego adds an extra level of excitement and motivation for the young forward.
Cade Cowell’s Second Start in the Competition
Cade Cowell, one of the standout young talents in U.S. soccer, earned his second start in the competition against Panama. Having previously started in the match against St. Kitts and Nevis, Cowell made history by becoming the fourth youngest player to start a Gold Cup Knockout Round match for the USMNT. This achievement speaks to his potential and the trust placed in him by the coaching staff.
Impressive Caps and Appearances in Official Competition
The USMNT’s starting lineup boasted an average of 16 caps per player, highlighting the collective experience within the team. These players have been involved in various international matches, gaining valuable exposure and contributing to the growth of the national team.
Furthermore, the lineup showcased an average of 11 appearances in official competition, underscoring the players’ ability to perform at a high level in crucial matches. This experience is vital in tournaments like the Gold Cup, where the stakes are high, and every match is crucial for advancement.
| Youngest USMNT Players to Start in Gold Cup Knockout Round | |||
| Player | Age | Date | Round |
| Juan Agudelo | 18 years, 211 days | June 22, 2011 vs. Panama | Semifinal |
| Gianluca Busio | 19 years, 58 days | July 25, 2021 vs. Jamaica | Quarterfinal |
| George Bello | 19 years, 191 days | Aug. 1, 2021 vs. Mexico | Final |
| Cade Cowell | 19 years, 271 days | July 12, 2023 vs. Panama | Semifinal |
| Jalen Neal | 19 years, 319 days | July 9, 2023 vs. Canada | Quarterfinal |
Ferreira and Sands: Key Figures in the Tournament
Jesús Ferreira, a talented forward, and James Sands, a midfielder, have been crucial components of the USMNT’s campaign in the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup. Their consistent presence in the starting lineup highlights their importance to the team’s strategy and their ability to deliver strong performances.
Ferreira: A Valuable Asset
Jesús Ferreira’s participation in all five matches of the Gold Cup showcases his versatility and adaptability. As a forward, Ferreira has provided a significant attacking threat for the USMNT, utilizing his technical skills and tactical awareness to create scoring opportunities. His ability to consistently contribute to the team’s performance has been commendable, making him a vital asset to the squad.
Sands: A Dependable Midfielder
James Sands, a midfielder with immense potential, has displayed remarkable consistency and maturity throughout the tournament. His ability to control the midfield and dictate the tempo of the game has been instrumental in the USMNT’s success. Sands’ string of 11 consecutive Gold Cup appearances is a testament to his growth and development as a player, showcasing his dedication and commitment to the team’s cause.
The Journey of Sands in the Gold Cup
James Sands’ journey in the Concacaf Gold Cup has been nothing short of impressive. After making his Gold Cup debut as a substitute against Haiti on July 11, 2021, Sands quickly established himself as a key contributor to the team’s midfield. Since then, he has started in each of his last 10 Gold Cup appearances, solidifying his position and proving his worth as an integral member of the USMNT.
| Player | Consecutive GC Caps/ Most Consecutive Starts |
Years |
| Landon Donovan | 22 / 10 | 2002-2007 |
| Eric Wynalda | 21 / 21 | 1991-2000 |
| Cobi Jones | 18 / 12 | 1993-2002 |
| Landon Donovan | 12 / 7 | 2011-2013 |
| Gyasi Zardes | 12 / 2 | 2019-2021 |
| Frankie Hejduk | 11 / 11 | 2002-2005 |
| James Sands | 11 / 10 | 2021-2023 |
| Chris Henderson | 10 / 10 | 1991-1993 |
| Kasey Keller | 10 / 10 | 2002-2003 |
| Tony Meola | 10 / 10 | 1991-1993 |
| Clarence Goodson | 10 / 9 | 2009-2013 |
Turner’s Impressive Gold Cup Journey
Matt Turner’s 10th appearance in the Concacaf Gold Cup ties him with Tony Meola for third place among USMNT goalkeepers in the confederation championship. This achievement speaks volumes about Turner’s consistent performances and his ability to deliver under pressure in crucial matches.
Thriving in the Knockout Rounds
Turner’s participation in the Gold Cup knockout rounds further emphasizes his importance to the USMNT. With his eighth appearance in a knockout round match, Turner surpassed Tony Meola to claim the third spot among USMNT goalkeepers in this category. His experience and composure in high-stakes matches have played a significant role in the team’s success.
Turner’s Record in Knockout Round Matches
Matt Turner’s record in knockout round contests is a testament to his skill and impact between the posts. With a record of 5 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss, Turner has demonstrated his ability to produce exceptional performances when it matters most. Notably, he has kept five clean sheets in these matches, showcasing his ability to shut down opposing attacks and provide a solid foundation for the team’s success.
| USMNT Gold Cup Goalkeeper Caps | USMNT Knockout Round Goalkeeper Caps | ||||
| Player | GP (SO) | W-L-D | Player | GP (SO) | W-L-D |
| Kasey Keller | 23 (14) | 17-3-3 | Kasey Keller | 16 (7) | 9-5-2 |
| Tim Howard | 13 (8) | 11-2-0 | Tim Howard | 12 (4) | 7-5-0 |
| Tony Meola | 10 (6) | 8-1-1 | Matt Turner | 8 (5) | 5-1-1 |
| Matt Turner | 10 (6) | 7-0-2 | Tony Meola | 7 (3) | 3-3-1 |
| Brad Guzan | 8 (2) | 4-1-3 | Brad Friedel | 6 (3) | 2-2-2 |
| 4 with | 5 caps | – | Brad Guzan | 6 (1) | 2-3-1 |
Player Pairings and Previous Encounters
The match against Panama saw six players who had previously faced off against them. Aaron Long and Djordje Mihailovic had encountered Panama twice before, while Gianluca Busio, Jesús Ferreira, Miles Robinson, and Matt Turner had each faced them once. This previous experience added an additional layer of familiarity and understanding as the players approached the game.
Memorable Moments and First Goals
Djordje Mihailovic, in his USMNT debut, made a significant impact by scoring his first international goal in the 3-0 triumph against Panama on January 27, 2019, in Glendale, Arizona. Jesús Ferreira also had a memorable encounter with Panama, scoring his first goal in official competition during a 5-1 World Cup Qualifying victory on March 27, 2022, in Orlando.
These moments not only highlighted the individual achievements of Mihailovic and Ferreira but also showcased the depth and talent within the USMNT squad.
Semifinal Experience and Player Contributions
Five starters in the match possessed previous semifinal experience. Miles Robinson and Matt Turner had featured in the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup Semifinal against Qatar and the 2023 Concacaf Nations League Semifinal against Canada. Gianluca Busio and James Sands also participated in the 2021 semifinal against Qatar, while Aaron Long had previously appeared in the 2019 Gold Cup Semifinal against Jamaica. This prior experience added valuable insights and composure to the team as they navigated the high-stakes encounter.
Potential Historic Appearance
If 19-year-old Jalen Neal, with six caps under his belt, were to come off the bench in this match, he would tie Mike Windischmann for the most USMNT appearances by a teenage center back, reaching seven. This potential milestone signifies Neal’s rapid progression and contributions to the national team at a young age.
Substitutions and Extra Time Rules
During regulation time, five substitutions were allowed in three different moments, excluding halftime. In the event of a tie at the end of 90 minutes, two 15-minute periods of extra time would be played, and both teams would be granted an additional substitution opportunity. If the teams remained tied after extra time, the match would be determined by a penalty shootout.
The USMNT has participated in seven shootouts in official competition, successfully advancing on five occasions, demonstrating their proficiency and resilience in high-pressure situations.
| USMNT Shootout Record in Official Competition | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | Competition |
| July 7, 1991 | Honduras | 0-0 D (4-3 W) | Gold Cup Final |
| July 17, 1995 | Mexico | 0-0 D (4-1 W) | Copa America Quarterfinal |
| Feb. 19, 2000 | Colombia | 2-2 D (1-2 L) | Gold Cup Quarterfinal |
| Jan. 30, 2002 | Canada | 0-0 D (4-2 W) | Gold Cup Semifinal |
| July 24, 2005 | Panama | 0-0 D (3-1 W) | Gold Cup Final |
| July 25, 2015 | Panama | 1-1 D (2-3 L) | Gold Cup Third Place Match |
| July 9, 2022 | Canada | 2-2 D (3-2 W) | Gold Cup Quarterfinal |
Implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR)
A significant feature of the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup is the utilization of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. VAR will be employed for all matches in the tournament, ensuring fairness and accuracy in critical decision-making processes.
Head-to-Head History
The clash between the USA and Panama marks the 26th meeting between the two nations. The USMNT boasts a dominant overall record against Panama, holding a 17-2-6 advantage. In official competition, the USMNT has a 13-2-6 edge over Panama, further illustrating their historical superiority. In the context of the Gold Cup, the USMNT has a formidable 6-1-4 record against Panama.
Strong Performance in the Knockout Rounds
The USMNT has a rich history of success in the Gold Cup knockout rounds. With a remarkable all-time record of 29 wins, 8 draws, and 6 losses, the team has consistently performed at a high level when the stakes are highest. In Gold Cup semifinal matches specifically, the USMNT holds an impressive 11-3-1 record, highlighting their ability to excel in crucial stages of the tournament.
The Referee for the Match
The referee for tonight’s highly anticipated semifinal is Walter López from Guatemala. This will be the fourth time the USMNT has been officiated by Mr. López, with the team boasting an unbeaten record in previous encounters. Notable victories under Mr. López’s officiating include a 6-0 win against Honduras in 2017 during the FIFA World Cup Qualifying, a 2-1 triumph over Jamaica in the 2017 Concacaf Gold Cup Final, and a memorable 2-0 victory against Mexico in 2021 during FIFA World Cup Qualifying.
The VyVyMangaa.Com