Massive blow for Panama as skipper Anibal Godoy ruled out just 24 hrs before opener

Things are over for Anibal Godoy even before the Panama skipper could make it to the Copa America. Godoy picked up a thigh injury during the team’s friendly clash against Paraguay last night. This is a big dent for his team as they will face title contenders Uruguay in their opening fixture of the tournament.

The Panama Football Association issued a statement over Anibal Godoy’s injury claiming the player has picked up a thigh injury and will not be available for the upcoming tournament. PFA stated, “Anibal Godoy suffered a Grade 2 injury of the left rectus femoris, a situation that leaves him out of the next Copa América USA 2024.“

This is a big dent in the team, considering Godoy has been a part of the national setup for almost 15 years. The 34-year-old central defensive midfielder has made 139 appearances for his country following his debut in 2010 and the team will surely miss his presence in the coming weeks as they look to make it into the knockout stages of the tournament.

What’s next for Panama after Anibal Godoy injury

Anibal Godoy’s injury has put his national team in a tough position. With the team set to face Uruguay in their opening game, the side will have to give their best if they want to have any chance of creating an upset against the South American giant. Godoy could have provided the team will some stability in the midfield, but with the player ruled out, the side needs to work on their defense to cope against the opponents’ relentless attackers.

It will be interesting to see how the country performs in the absence of their best player. Fans will hope that the team can put on noteworthy performances in the tournament regardless of missing out on the services of their skipper.

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