Soccer is the beautiful game no matter what — but every four years, when it's imbued with the international pride and enthusiasm of the World Cup, it takes on extra emotion. Whiffing on a penalty kick can equal global failure, while a victory for the underdog is practically a religious experience.
But for the Panama national soccer team, well, they were just happy to make it to Russia this year. Before they took the field against Belgium on Monday for their first-ever World Cup match, the players stood for the customary playing of their national anthem. Several stood with tears in their eyes, while the crowd belted the words with a fervor. Watch the touching moment below, and relive the goal that brought Panama to Fisht Stadium in Sochi here. Kimberly Alters
The Week
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