It all comes down to this.
The final matchday of Concacaf 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers is here. Nashville SC’s Walker Zimmerman (U.S.) and Aníbal Godoy (Panama) will face one final test after squaring off in Orlando on Sunday. The U.S. will look to put a bow on a World Cup spot in Costa Rica, while Panama will look to close out the window on a high note at home after being mathematically eliminated from qualification last weekend.
Here’s how Zimmerman and Godoy have fared so far and how to catch their final matches on Wednesday:
Walker Zimmerman – United States
United States 5, Panama 1
Zimmerman and the U.S. are on the doorstep of a World Cup Qualifying berth thanks to a 5-1 victory over Panama on Sunday night in Orlando. Early in the match, Zimmerman was fouled on a set piece, leading to a Christian Pulisic penalty in the 18’ minute that ignited the United States attack. Zimmerman turned in another strong performance, connecting on 86% of his passes, winning six duels and recording seven clearances and four recoveries.
The U.S. remains in second place in the Octagonal while tied on points with Mexico at 25. They cannot finish lower than the fourth-place inter-confederation playoff spot.
In order to officially secure qualification, the U.S. must not lose by six or more goals to Costa Rica on Wednesday night. Any other result guarantees qualification.
United States 0, Mexico 0
Zimmerman and the U.S. played to a scoreless draw versus Mexico last Thursday night at the Estadio Azteca. Zimmerman was a stalwart at the back once again, recording four aerial duels won, six recoveries and two clearances.
Next Match:
Wednesday, March 30 at 8:05 p.m. CT: U.S. at Costa Rica (Paramount Plus, Universo, Peacock)
Aníbal Godoy – Panama
Panama 1, United States 5
Godoy came up on the losing end of the battle of the Boys in Gold as his Panama side saw a 5-1 defeat to the U.S. in Orlando Sunday night. Godoy scored a goal off a header in the 86’ to spoil the American clean sheet. Godoy also completed 90% of his passes, had two clearances and 13 recoveries.
With the loss, Godoy and Panama have been eliminated from 2022 World Cup qualifying contention.
Panama 1, Honduras 1
Aníbal Godoy and Panama drew 1-1 against Honduras last Thursday night. The Panamanian captain was accurate on 88% of his passes, won nine duels and completed two tackles.
Next Match:
Wednesday, March 30 at 8:05 p.m. CT: Panama vs. Canada (Paramount Plus, Universo)
