Canada secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Panama in a men’s soccer friendly on Tuesday, thanks to a dramatic 87th-minute goal from Jonathan David. The victory, in front of 23,315 fans at BMO Field, marked coach Jesse Marsch’s home debut and provided momentum heading into the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals.
David’s acrobatic strike came from a well-placed cross by Liam Millar, giving him his 30th international goal and sealing the match for Canada. Earlier, Cyle Larin had opened the scoring just before halftime, also netting his 30th goal for the national team.
Despite Canada’s early dominance, Panama equalized in the 69th minute through substitute José Fajardo. However, the Canadians regrouped, and David’s late goal proved the difference in an otherwise scrappy and physical encounter.
Coach Jesse Marsch lauded his team’s resilience, saying, “It was great to see us rise to the challenge when the game got tough.” Captain Alphonso Davies added, “We’re a team that doesn’t give up easily, and today showed that.”
Canada now looks ahead to the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals, with their home leg set for November 19 at BMO Field.
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