Thierry Henry Reveals What Panama’s Cecilio Waterman Said to Him During Goal Celebration Hug After Stunning USMNT in Nations League

Henry was visibly moved by Waterman's gesture and he reciprocated the admiration, resulting in a heartwarming exchange.

In a thrilling CONCACAF Nations League semifinal on Thursday, Panama secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over the United States, courtesy of a stoppage-time goal from striker Cecilio Waterman. The match, held at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, saw Waterman net the decisive goal in the 94th minute, propelling Panama to the tournament final. Panama’s victory over the U.S. marked their third consecutive competitive win against the American side, following previous successes in the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal and the group stage of the previous year’s Copa America.

Waterman scored with an angled shot to send Panama into the final against Mexico. He received a pass down the right side from teammate Adalberto Carrasquilla inside the US penalty area and the striker fired a perfect right-footed shot past Matt Turner into the far left corner.

What followed the goal was a moment that transcended the game itself. Overcome with emotion, Waterman jumped over an advertising board and went straight to Henry. The 33-year-old sprinted towards the broadcast area where legendary French striker and current CBS Sports analyst Thierry Henry was stationed.

Leaping over advertising boards, Waterman embraced Henry. After hugging Henry, Waterman was soon joined by his Panama teammates, who also rushed over to celebrate with the football icon.

THE MOMENT OF A LIFETIME FOR @FEPAFUT's CECILIO WATERMAN ❤️ pic.twitter.com/N87TvqZZhv
— Golazo America (@GolazoAmerica) March 21, 2025

Also Read: “An Absolute Embarrassment” – Fans Rip Into USMNT After Shocking CONCACAF Nations League Exit Against Panama

What Did Waterman Say to Henry?

Speaking after Panama held their nerve to clinch a dramatic 1-0 win over the United States, Thierry Henry opened up about the unforgettable moment he shared with goalscorer Cecilio Waterman during the wild stoppage-time celebrations.

Reflecting on the surreal encounter live on CBS Sports, Henry admitted he was caught completely off guard.
“That was outstanding. I was honestly shocked,” he said. “That finish was incredible. He clearly knew where we were, but I never imagined I’d be part of a goal celebration—without scoring or even being on the pitch.“

“I could see it in his eyes—he was lost in the moment,” Henry said. “Thank God I speak Spanish because when he said, ‘Eres mi ídolo’—‘you are my idol’—I was relieved, thinking, ‘OK, we’re good!’ It was special. Really special.”

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Waterman later revealed that meeting Henry was a dream come true, marking the moment as one of the most incredible experiences of his career.

“They asked me last night who my hero was and I said it has always been Thierry Henry,” Waterman said in a post-match interview with Arsenal’s record goalscorer.

“Since I was a little kid you have always been an inspiration for me. I scored the goal, I saw you and I knew I had to come and say hi.”

A stunned Henry said he would send the striker an Arsenal shirt after Waterman handed over his Panama jersey.

CONCACAF Nations League

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Abhinav Goel

soccer

I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.