After scoring the decisive goal that led Panama to a 1-0 victory against the United States in the Concacaf Nations League semifinal, Cecilio Waterman’s celebration was as remarkable as the goal itself. He approached Thierry Henry, who was on the Paramount+ broadcast set near the field.
The winning goal and the subsequent celebration are captured in close-up view.
Waterman, a player for Chilean team Coquimbo Unido, headed straight for the French football icon to share a message. Initially, the interaction seemed tense, but Henry later clarified that Waterman expressed that Henry was his childhood ‘idol’ and felt compelled to approach him after scoring.
Following the match, Waterman gifted Henry his jersey. In a heartwarming gesture, Henry promised to send Waterman one of his Arsenal jerseys in return.
The goal was truly exceptional, Panama’s only shot on target throughout the game, and a fantastic strike. This was also Waterman’s first goal against the USMNT in their second encounter. Panama has now secured three consecutive wins against the United States in major competitions.
Panama, currently ranked 36th globally by FIFA, will compete against the winner of the match between Mexico and Canada in the final. This marks the first time a team other than the USMNT will win this tournament.
