The controversial incident occurred on the evening of 2/5 during Sporting San Miguelito's 2-3 loss to Alianza FC in the Panamanian National League (LPF). With the score at 2-2 and only a few minutes of stoppage time remaining, Alianza attacked down the left wing and crossed into the penalty area. Calderon caught the ball in a favorable position near the post, but the 34-year-old goalkeeper inexplicably pushed it against the post, causing it to bounce over the goal line.

Panamanian television commentators were stunned by the turn of events. "That's insane," exclaimed a commentator from TV Max Deportes.

His colleague Ricardo Icaza described the situation as "very strange", noting that Calderon seemed to have control before putting the ball into his own net.

The own goal resulted in Sporting San Miguelito's 2-3 loss at Alianza's home ground. After the match, striker Gustavo Herrera publicly accused his teammate of match-fixing.

Calderon's puzzling own goal.

Herrera himself had opened the scoring for Sporting in the 24th minute. However, after the late goal, the 20-year-old striker walked straight into the tunnel despite not being substituted. Hours later, he posted a harsh message on social media, directly targeting Calderon.

"The love for football is in the heart, but many have lost it," Herrera wrote. "I'll name names: Jose Calderon is a damn match-fixer, and there are many others too. Don't they feel ashamed? A player who once wore the national team jersey doing something like this – is that an example for the youth?"

The Panamanian striker further stated that the country's football is losing its value, as players who strive to pursue a career are affected by dishonest acts. "Many players dedicate everything to pursue their dreams, and I am one of them," Herrera added. "Those who tarnish this sport should leave football and have the courage to admit what they have done."

Herrera's public statements quickly caused a stir on Panamanian social media. Calderon is not an unknown name, as he has represented the national team 44 times. Therefore, the match-fixing suspicions drew even more public attention.

Goalkeeper Calderon in the Panama national team jersey. *Photo: FEPAFUT*

Facing increasing pressure, the LPF organizing committee issued a formal investigation announcement. "The Panamanian football league has launched an investigation regarding the serious incident in the match between Alianza and Sporting San Miguelito, which could affect the integrity of the league," the statement read. "We will act with the highest level of rigor to clarify the matter."

Meanwhile, Calderon completely denied the match-fixing accusations. The goalkeeper admitted his mistake but maintained it was merely an unfortunate professional error.

"An unfortunate play led to the own goal," Calderon wrote in a personal statement. "I sincerely apologize to my teammates, coaching staff, family, and fans, and take full responsibility for what was purely a professional and unintentional error."

The former Panama international also reacted strongly to Herrera's criticisms. He declared that he "categorically rejects any attempts to link this situation to actions contrary to the integrity of sport", and left open the possibility of legal action against individuals who damage his honor and reputation with "false or unsubstantiated statements."

Hoang An (according to Marca, Nacion)