Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz clinched third place in the CONCACAF Nations League on Sunday with a hard-fought victory against Panama at Arlington Stadium in Virginia.
The Boyz, under the guidance of coach Heimir Hallgrimsson, secured their triumph thanks to a 41st-minute strike from Dexter Lembikisa.
Lembikisa, operating as a fullback, received a well-timed through pass from Hector near the edge of the 18-yard box before unleashing a powerful shot into the top left corner of Oscar Mosquera’s goal. The goal, Lembikisa's first for Jamaica, sparked jubilant celebrations for the Reggae Boyz, who had suffered a heartbreaking 3-1 loss in extra time against the United States in their semi-final match just days earlier.
Jamaica welcomed back Demarai Gray and Shamar Nicholson, who had missed the previous match due to suspensions. Their return provided a boost to the team's attacking prowess.
In front of a sparse crowd at Arlington Stadium, Panama initially dominated possession in the scrappy affair. However, it was Jamaica who had the best chance to score early on when Shamar Nicholson's right-footed shot on goal was deflected into his path. His subsequent left-footed strike was cleared off the line by Mosquera.
Despite Panama's early dominance, Jamaica managed to create opportunities of their own. A build-up along the left flank saw Kasey Palmer squander a chance from Gray's cross into the box.
In the second half, Jamaica came close to doubling their lead when Damion Lowe's attempted lob over the goalkeeper struck the crossbar and stayed out of the net. Lowe, once more, had an outstanding game playing in midfield for Jamaica breaking up attacks and initiating attacking plays.
As time passed, Panama launched relentless attacks against the Jamaican defense in search of an equalizer. However, the Boyz stood firm, thwarting Panama's efforts and holding on to their lead until the final whistle.
The victory secured third place for Jamaica in the CONCACAF Nations League, capping off their campaign with a well-deserved win against Panama.