Panama made history by reaching the Copa America quarterfinals for the first time, defeating Bolivia 3-1 on Monday night to secure second place in Group C.
In the quarterfinals, Panama will face the winner of Group D, likely Brazil or Colombia. José Fajardo scored in his second consecutive match, giving Panama the lead in the 22nd minute. Bruno Miranda equalized for Bolivia in the 69th minute, briefly dropping Panama to third place behind the United States.
However, Eduardo Guerrero’s goal in the 79th minute restored Panama’s lead at 2-1, putting them back on course to advance. César Yanis sealed the victory with a goal in stoppage time.
Managed by Danish coach Thomas Christiansen, Panama was participating in the Copa America for the second time.
The match was officiated by Brazilian referee Edina Alves, alongside assistants Neuza Back from Brazil and Mary Blanco from Colombia, marking the first all-female on-field officiating crew in Copa America history.
Fajardo’s goal came from a header by Christian Martínez, volleyed past goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra for his 12th international goal. Miranda scored Bolivia’s first goal of the tournament, while Guerrero and Yanis extended Panama’s lead with well-taken goals.
Panama played without Adalberto Carrasquilla, who was suspended after receiving a red card in their previous match for a challenge on Christian Pulisic.
