Things took a turn for the worse for the USMNT against Panama. Gregg Berhalter and Co. lost the Matchday 2 fixture 2-1 against their Group C rivals, failing to maintain their winning momentum from the last fixture’s win over Bolivia. The outcome wasn’t the only setback the host nation suffered as star USMNT goalkeeper Matt Turner was forced to leave the pitch in the middle of the game after sustaining a major collision. With that, the only concern that remains in the minds of fans is how grave is his injury.

Well, to break the ice, it wasn’t any usual kind of hit that the goalie took. As per the latest report from the USMNT’s sideline reporter Michele Giannone on X, Turner has sustained an injury in his left leg. The knock is quite serious as the Nottingham Forest man was not able to continue. He had to be replaced by backup goalie Ethan Horvath. Further tests will make the extent of the injury much more clear.

Notably, the incident took place just under 10 minutes into the match. Panama played the ball in the box with Tim Ream and Antonee Robinson poaching rival star Cesar Blackman to deny him the ball. Though Turner thought of quickly evading the danger by catching the ball, it resulted in a major collision with Blackman and both fell quite hard on the ground. Unfortunately, the keeper’s left leg had contact with the opposition star’s right knee.

While Panama’s Blackman got up in no time, Turner was still seen clutching his shoulder and jerking his legs in discomfort. Moreover, the goalie was seen receiving medical attention for quite a few minutes. However, more surprisingly, Blackman walked off the incident without any booking, shedding a negative light on the referee.

Who was the referee for USMNT vs Panama as fans were unhappy with the Matt Turner decision?

Tonight’s referee for the USMNT vs. Panama was Ivan Arcides Barton Cisneros from El Salvador. Interestingly, this isn’t the first time as Ivan has officiated for the Star and Stripes over 6 times previously, during which the USMNT has recorded 5 wins and 1 draw, with 18 goals scored and 3 conceded. Yet, despite being familiar with Gregg Berhalter and Co., the official didn’t impress many with his decisions.

Aside from Turner’s hit, Ivan Cisneros decided to send off USMNT youngster Tim Weah in just 19 minutes. The winger was apparently involved in a physical altercation with a Panama player, forcing the referee to consult VAR. Rest, the damage was done. Despite being 10 men down, the USA took the lead via Folarin Balogun, but minutes later the score was leveled. Likewise, in the final minutes, Panama sealed a win before they also went 10-man down.

Be that as it may, everything went south for The US Men’s National Team. But concern lingers over Matt Turner’s injury. Let’s hope it’s not serious for the goalkeeper.