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Blas Perez

Blas Perez: Panama's Record-Breaking Striker

Early Life and Career

Blas Antonio Pérez Ortega, born in the capital city of Panama on February 13, 1981, is a Panamanian former professional soccer player who played as a striker. During his prime, Perez was renowned for his exceptional goal-scoring abilities and left an indelible mark on Panamanian football history.

Perez's football journey commenced at the tender age of 16 when he joined his hometown club, CD Árabe Unido. His impressive performances at the local level quickly caught the attention of scouts from South America, leading to his transfer to the Colombian club Deportivo Cali in 1999.

Perez spent the next two seasons with Deportivo Cali, making a significant impact on the team's attacking prowess. He showcased his remarkable goal-scoring instincts, netting 25 goals in 57 appearances, establishing himself as one of the most promising young forwards in the region.

International Career

Perez's international debut for the Panama national football team came in 2001, and he quickly became a pivotal figure for his country. He represented Panama in numerous international tournaments, including the CONCACAF Gold Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifying campaigns.

Perez's most significant achievement with the national team was helping Panama qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup in 2018. He played a crucial role in the team's historic victory over Costa Rica, which secured Panama's place in the global tournament. Perez scored the winning goal in that match, etching his name into Panamanian football folklore.

Perez holds the record for most goals scored by a Panamanian player at the international level, with 43 goals in 129 appearances. His exceptional goal-scoring ability and dedication to his country cemented his status as one of Panama's greatest footballers of all time.

Club Career

Perez's club career spanned two decades, with stints at numerous clubs across South America, North America, and Europe. After leaving Deportivo Cali, he played for several clubs in Argentina, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates before returning to his native Panama.

In 2013, Perez joined Club Libertad in Paraguay, where he enjoyed a particularly successful period in his career. He scored 33 goals in 59 appearances for Libertad, helping the team win the Paraguayan Primera División championship in 2014. Perez's impressive performances earned him the Paraguayan Footballer of the Year award in 2014.

Perez ended his professional playing career in 2019 after a brief stint with Costa Rican club Deportivo Saprissa. He retired as one of the most decorated and respected players in Panamanian football history.

Legacy

Blas Perez's legacy extends beyond his impressive goal-scoring record and trophies. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Panamanian footballers of all time, having played a pivotal role in the development and success of the national team.

Perez's commitment to his country and his unwavering determination to succeed inspired a generation of young Panamanian footballers. He remains a role model and a source of pride for his nation, and his achievements will forever be etched in the annals of Panamanian football history.