Orlando Valencia came off the bench to score Panama's equaliser in their international friendly against India. The forward found the net in the 68th minute to secure a 1-1 draw for his side.
India had taken the lead just before half-time through a goal from R. Williams in the 41st minute. The Panamanian manager made three changes at the break, including introducing Valencia for J. Modelo, a move that paid off. Midfielder E. Anderson provided the assist for the levelling goal.
The result sees Panama sitting fourth in their World Cup qualifying group, with zero points from three games played. Their next outing is another friendly, at home against New Zealand on September 30.
The team is now on a run of five matches without a win, recording two draws and three defeats. They will face the All Whites looking to end that poor form before returning to the battle for points in qualification.
India's manager, Khalid Jamil, highlighted his team's character after the draw. "We did not retreat after conceding the goal," Jamil said. His side created late chances despite Valencia's equalizer. Fourteen members of Panama's traveling squad featured at the 2026 World Cup. Panama, fourth in their World Cup qualifying group with zero points, host New Zealand on September 30.
Panama's team analyst left the bench before the end of the match against India, as observed in the stadium. Panama head coach Thomas Christiansen grew very animated near the hour mark. The home side, buoyed by the crowd, created two clear chances in the 80th minute to win the game. Panama, fourth in their World Cup group with zero points, host New Zealand on September 30.
