Panama Championship. First Division. Women
The Panama Women's First Division Championship stands as the premier women's football league in the country, pitting top clubs against each other for national supremacy. Overseen by the Panamanian Football Federation (FEPAFUT), it serves as a vital hub for advancing women's soccer in Central America amid surging global interest.
History and foundation
Launched in 2018 amid the worldwide push for women's football, the league saw early dominance by capital-based sides like Universitario and Sport Girls. The 2020 pandemic halted play, but the 2021 restart crowned CD Plaza Amador as inaugural champions in a thrilling upset. A milestone came in 2022 with national TV broadcasts, boosting attendance. Notably, players from Tauro FC Women fueled Panama's semi-final run at the 2022 CONCACAF W Gold Cup.
Tournament format
Featuring 10 teams in a double round-robin format, clubs earn points for wins and draws across home and away fixtures. The top four advance to playoffs: quarterfinals, semifinals, and a grand final. The season spans February to June, with adjustments for international breaks, while lower divisions feed promotions.
Interesting facts
Matches average 2.8 goals, favoring quick counters and set pieces. All-time top scorer is Silvia Rodriguez of Sport Girls with 45 goals over three seasons. Standouts include midfielder Laura Garcia (Tauro), whose 12 assists in 2023 powered her side, and striker Maria Valdes (Plaza Amador), hero of a hat-trick in the 2021 final. The league has nurtured stars like Clara Rodas for the national team.