Triumph of Panama in their first World Cup
The 2-1 triumph of Panama over Costa Rica, which allowed them to access their first World Cup, was not exempt from controversy, as the Panamanian team achieved a 1-1 draw against the Costa Ricans thanks to a non-existent goal.
In a corner kick, Gabriel Torres headed the ball and it passed close to the goal line, although referee Walter López declared the goal in favor of the Panamanians. Although television replays showed that the ball did not enter the goal, the decision did not change.
The goal of Panama!!! #SomosLaSele
11th October 2017
The final score tilted in favor of the home team with a goal by Román Torres in the last minutes, which made the fans gathered at the Rommel Fernández Stadium go crazy with happiness.
Thus, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama secured direct spots to the 2018 World Cup; Honduras will play the play-offs against Australia, and the United States, affected by this result, was eliminated from the World Cup.