Howard's USA in Shock Gold Cup Defeat

Tim Howard was in goal last night as the USA suffered a shock defeat at the hands of minnows Panama in their second Gold Cup fixture. It was the USA's first ever loss in the group stages of the competition and leaves them second in Group C after the second round of matches.

The US started slowly and quickly found themselves behind to a 19th minute Luis Tejada goal, before Gabriel Gomez doubled the Panamanian lead from the penalty spot, lifting the ball over Tim Howard. Clarence Goodson - who, incidentally, has a near-perfect surname - pulled one back for the USA with 20 minutes to go but it was a case of too little, too late, as the USA were punished for a lacklustre start.

American forward and ex-Everton loanee Landon Donovan said afterwards: "Sometimes you just come out flat for whatever reason. At this level, and against a good team, you can't do that. Some nights you come out flat and you don't get punished, but other nights you do. We learned a valuable lesson.

"First of all, give Panama a lot of credit. They started the game well. They put us on our heels at times. It took us a while to get into the game. Our second half was very good, but when you dig yourself a hole that huge, sometimes you can't get out.

"CONCACAF teams are getting better and better. It's a pretty good team we played against. It's disappointing, but the reality is it's over now. We've got to win on Tuesday, see what else happens and see where we end up. We're still fine."

Despite the loss, a victory over Guadeloupe in Kansas City on Tuesday night will see the USA clinch a quarter-final spot.