Canada tops CONCACAF World Cup qualifying group despite loss to Panama

Canada wrapped up a remarkable World Cup qualifying campaign Wednesday on a down note in a 1-0 loss to Panama but will still go to Qatar as the top finisher in CONCACAF.

With the Canadian men pressing for the equalizer, Atiba Hutchinson's backheel found Junior Hoilett and the veteran floated a cross to Larin in front of goal for what looked like his 25th goal for Canada. The Besiktas striker put a finger to his mouth to silence the crowd before kissing his badge in celebration.

But the celebrations ended when referee Jair Maruffo went to the pitchside monitor to check on offside. Canada kept coming forward during the seven minutes of stoppage time but could not get the goal, with a Larin header flashing wide off a free kick.

The Canadian men finished tied with Mexico on 28 points at 8-2-4 but took first spot in the eight-team round-robin by virtue of a superior goal difference. The U.S. (7-3-4, 25 points) finished third on goal difference over Costa Rica.

Cyle Larin’s equalizer for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CanMNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CanMNT</a> is ruled out by VAR for offside ❌<br><br>Panama still leads 1-0<br>