Panama mourns Luis Tejada, a legendary striker and national record-holder
On Sunday, January 28, the soccer world in Panama and beyond learned of the passing of Luis Tejada, the country’s all-time top scorer. The news came from ESPN, confirming the loss of a player who left an enduring mark on Panamanian football. Tejada was 41 years old at the time of his death.
Initial reports indicate that Tejada suffered a heart attack during an amateur league match in his hometown. He lost consciousness during the game, was promptly transported to a hospital, and did not recover. His sudden passing left fans, teammates, and a generation of aspiring footballers facing a difficult moment of reflection on his contributions to the sport in Panama.
Tejada’s status as the leading scorer for the Panama national team is secure in the annals of the sport. He amassed 43 goals across 107 appearances for his country, a tally that stands as a benchmark for future generations. Beyond the numbers, Tejada helped elevate Panama to new levels on the international stage, including a memorable run that culminated in the nation reaching its first World Cup finals appearance. In the 2018 World Cup in Russia, he featured in two group-stage matches as Panama competed with teams such as England, Belgium, and Tunisia. Although the campaign did not yield advancement, the experience marked a milestone for Panamanian football, with Tejada contributing to the team’s historic presence on the world stage.
Tejada’s career spanned multiple continents and leagues, reflecting a journeyman’s resilience and adaptability. He played in domestic leagues in Panama and in the United States, as well as in the United Arab Emirates, Peru, Mexico, and Colombia. This breadth of experience helped him refine his playing style and became a source of pride for fans following the growth of Panamanian players abroad. In 2022, Tejada retired from professional football with Potros del Este, a club in Panama, closing a long and storied chapter in his professional life.
During his time with the national team and across club appearances, Tejada earned recognition not only for his goal-scoring prowess but also for his leadership on and off the pitch. His career is remembered for the discipline, persistence, and passion he brought to every match, attributes that inspired younger players and helped expand the footprint of Panamanian football in the international arena. The legacy Tejada leaves behind is one of sustained excellence and a commitment to representing his country with pride on every opportunity.
In reflecting on Tejada’s passing, the football community acknowledges the impact of his achievements and the heartbreak of a career cut short by a heart-related event off the field. The hope now is for those who admired him to honor his memory by continuing to push for progress within Panama’s football programs, nurturing young talent, and striving toward new milestones on both regional and global stages. Tejada’s name remains etched in the history of Panamanian soccer as a symbol of perseverance, accomplishment, and national pride. The sport’s supporters will carry forward the lessons of his dedication and the moments of triumph he helped to create.
Notes from the broader context of the sport note how Panama’s football landscape evolved during Tejada’s era. The country’s emergence as a competitive force in CONCACAF and its ongoing efforts to increase participation, funding, and development pipelines for players inspired by Tejada’s example continue to shape the national program. His successful domestic and international club experiences underline the value of exposure to diverse leagues and playing styles, a theme that resonates with players aiming to broaden their horizons while staying connected to their roots.