Panama’s beach soccer journey is evolving, and at the heart of this transformation is Luis Quintero. The seasoned athlete is passionate about the sport and eager to lead his country to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Seychelles 2025. With Panama’s beach soccer league finally back after years of dormancy, Quintero believes this fresh start could make all the difference.
Contents
- 1 Luis Quintero: From Humble Beginnings to National Aspirations
- 2 The Return of Panama’s Beach Soccer League: A Game-Changer
- 3 Concacaf Qualifiers: The Road to Seychelles 2025
- 4 A New System Under Angelo Williams
- 5 What Qualification Means for Panama
- 6 The Growth of Beach Soccer in Panama
- 7 A Love Affair with Beach Soccer
- 8 Dreaming of Seychelles 2025
Luis Quintero: From Humble Beginnings to National Aspirations
Luis Quintero, a 34-year-old physical education teacher and football coach, is no stranger to perseverance. When he’s not guiding young children in the classroom, he’s honing his craft on the sandy pitches of Panama’s revived beach soccer league. Quintero’s journey began in 2015, but despite his talent, he missed the opportunity to join Panama’s squad for their historic 2017 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup appearance. Now, with Seychelles 2025 on the horizon, he sees a new chance to make his mark on the world stage.
The Return of Panama’s Beach Soccer League: A Game-Changer
After five years of inactivity, Panama’s beach soccer league was resurrected in January. This revival has brought new energy to the sport, allowing players to maintain their fitness and refine their skills. Previously, the absence of a structured league meant players had to rely on sporadic, short tournaments that offered little consistency or development.
“The league is helping us maintain rhythm,” Quintero shared. “Before, training was twice as demanding because we didn’t have regular matches. Now, we’re better prepared with the league, and the new players are thriving in mini-camps.”
Concacaf Qualifiers: The Road to Seychelles 2025
Panama faces a tough challenge in the upcoming Concacaf qualifiers, competing against formidable opponents like the USA, the Bahamas, and Trinidad and Tobago. Quintero considers the USA their toughest rival, citing past battles where Panama’s lack of experience and endurance in the final periods of matches cost them dearly. However, the reinstated league has bolstered their readiness, giving them a fighting chance.
“The Bahamas will also be a challenge,” Quintero added. “They’ve had a long training camp, and their coach, Francis Farberoff, is excellent. Trinidad and Tobago are another team that never gives up. Every match will be crucial.”
A New System Under Angelo Williams
Panama’s national team is adapting to a more dynamic playing style under coach Angelo Williams. In the past, the team relied heavily on keeping the ball at their feet, a strategy born out of necessity due to limited practice opportunities. Williams has introduced a more authentic beach soccer approach, emphasizing aerial plays, movement, and creativity.
“We’re focusing more on technique and movement without the ball,” Quintero explained. “This system allows us to attack more effectively and play a style that can set us apart in qualifiers.”
What Qualification Means for Panama
Securing a spot in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup would be monumental for Panama. Their last and only appearance was in 2017, and Quintero believes the current team has the potential to replicate that success.
“Qualifying would mean everything to us,” he said. “It’s been our goal throughout these camps. First, we need to get past the group stage, and then we can aim for the World Cup.”
Quintero also reminisced about the unity and confidence of the 2017 squad, qualities he hopes to see replicated in the current team. “That team was exceptional. They supported each other, weren’t afraid to make mistakes, and gave everything they had.”
The Growth of Beach Soccer in Panama
Beach soccer is gaining popularity in Panama, thanks to efforts to build pitches inland and promote the sport beyond the coastal areas. This growth is vital for ensuring the sport’s longevity and providing opportunities for future generations of players.
“In the past, you had to go to the beach to play,” Quintero noted. “Now, with new pitches being built, more people can access the sport. It’s great for the players and the sport’s future in Panama.”
A Love Affair with Beach Soccer
Quintero’s passion for beach soccer began in 2015 when he received a call to join Panama’s first national team. Although he had no prior experience, he quickly fell in love with the sport after watching YouTube videos and practicing on the beach.
“It was love at first sight,” he said. “Beach soccer is an art. The overhead kicks, the movement—it’s all so beautiful.”
Dreaming of Seychelles 2025
Quintero and his teammates want to represent Panama at Seychelles 2025. The idea of competing in a world championship at a destination as picturesque as Seychelles only adds to their motivation.
“It’s a dream,” Quintero admitted. “To compete against the best in a place as beautiful as Seychelles would be incredible. But first, we need to focus on qualifying. Representing Panama on that stage would be the honor of a lifetime.”
