The Copa América wasn't just another tournament for Panama.
Qualifying for the first time in the country's history was validation Panama's national soccer team belonged among the best in this part of the world. Playing in the 100-year-old competition was a step toward another first the whole country is waiting for — qualifying for the World Cup.
Los Canaleros were motivated, excited and hopeful to prove themselves. And they did.
Blas Pérez scored two goals in his country's Copa debut for a historic 2-1 win over Bolivia as a tropical storm loomed overhead Monday night at Camping World Stadium.