San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Anibal Godoy was one of four players who play their club ball in MLS to start for Panama in their first-ever FIFA World Cup match on Monday morning. Godoy was alongside Seattle’s Roman Torres and the Red Bulls’ duo of Fidel Escobar and Michael Murillo.
A heavy underdog to Belgium, Los Canaleros entered the match as the 55th-ranked team in the world according to FIFA, behind nations such as Congo DR (t-38), Montenegro (43) and Bulgaria (49). Belgium, meanwhile, came in at No. 3 behind only defending world champions Germany and traditional powers Brazil.
Panama more than held their own for a large stretch of the match, even seeing out the first half 0-0. Godoy seemed composed on the ball, completing a large percentage of his passes and helping keep Belgium’s loaded offense at bay.
A wonder goal by Napoli winger Dries Mertens in the 47th minute and a pair of late strikes by Manchester United forward Romelu Lukaku helped Belgium pull away in the second half.
The passion that Panama played with was evident as early as the National Anthem, with numerous players including Godoy singing loudly and fully soaking in the moment.
Quakes defender Harold Cummings did not appear in the match but was available as a selection on the bench.
Panama’s next match is on Sunday when they take on England at 5 a.m. Come out to Avaya Stadium and watch the match on the large video board. Both parking and admission for all the viewing parties at Avaya Stadium are free.
