Panama's men's American football team solidified its status as a regional power by lifting the trophy at the 4 Nations Tournament held in El Salvador. The competition brought together the hosts El Salvador, Panama, Nicaragua, and Honduras for 'flag' and 'tackle' matches at the Las Delicias stadium in Santa Tecla. Panama participated exclusively in the 'tackle' discipline, while Honduras limited its participation to 'flag'. Under the guidance of head coach Raúl Arosemena, the Panamanians delivered an elite performance, defeating the hosts 67-0. This victory earned them a spot in the championship match, where they were set to face the Nicaraguan team, which had also defeated El Salvador 6-0. However, the match, originally scheduled for last Sunday, March 22, was ultimately decided by forfeit. As the Nicaraguan team did not show up, Panama was declared the tournament champion. Although the title was not decided on the field as planned, the Salvadoran federation, through its president, congratulated the Panamanian delegation, highlighting the level demonstrated and the growth of American football in the country. Luis Navas, president of the American Football Federation of Panama (AFFP), emphasized that participating in this competition, after not being considered in previous editions, is a result of the association's sustained work and management. 'Panama's participation in this tournament marks a strategic step for the development of national American football, especially with a view to the continental stage,' stated Navas. 'On the field, the players demonstrated their level, discipline, and competitive spirit, elevating the country's name with solid performances,' added the president of the AFFP. The senior men's 'tackle' team will return to the field at the end of the year to participate in the 2026 IFAF Central American and Caribbean Games, as well as play confirmed friendly matches against Mexico and Canada in December.
