Copa America exit a 'learning experience' for Panama, says Christiansen

Thomas Christiansen believes Panama's exit from the Copa America will prove to be a "learning experience" for his players following their defeat to Colombia.

Panama had no answers to a James Rodriguez-inspired performance, bowing out of the competition after a 5-0 defeat to Los Cafeteros in Arizona.

Christiansen's side reached the knockout stages of the tournament for the first time in their history, having fallen in the group stages in 2016.

Panama finished second in Group C in this year's edition behind Uruguay, knocking out hosts United States out in the process.

¡FINAL DEL PARTIDO ! Termina el compromiso y la participación de #PanamáMayor?? en la @CopaAmerica. ¡Orgullosos de ustedes muchachos ! 5-0 State Farm #TodosSomosPanam pic.twitter.com/C3pDk2TZfw

— FEPAFUT (@fepafut) July 6, 2024

Los Canaleros knew the enormity of the task ahead of them and have now failed to beat Colombia in their 15 fixtures against them (drawn four, lost 11).

However, head coach Christiansen was proud of his team's efforts and knows his players will return stronger from the defeat.

"I am very proud of my players, of what they have achieved in this Copa America," Christiansen said.

"Of course, no one likes losing and much the less 5-0, but we have to commend the players for this Copa America.

"It did not end as we wished, but this is also a learning experience."