Blas Perez: The Panamanian Striker Who Conquered Mexico and Colombia
Early Life and Career
Blas Antonio Perez, born on February 4, 1981, in Panama City, Panama, began his footballing journey with Club Deportivo Municipal of Guatemala. In 2001, he moved to Envigado in Colombia, where he scored 18 goals in 49 appearances, catching the attention of bigger clubs.
Rise to Fame in Mexico
In 2005, Perez joined Club Necaxa in the Mexican Primera Division and quickly established himself as a prolific goalscorer. He scored 17 goals in his debut season and helped Necaxa reach the semi-finals of the Apertura tournament. His impressive performances earned him a transfer to a bigger club, CF Pachuca.
With Pachuca, Perez continued to showcase his scoring prowess, winning the Clausura title in 2007 and the CONCACAF Champions' Cup in 2008. He formed a formidable partnership with Argentine striker, Christian Gimenez, and together they terrorized opposition defenses.
International Success
At the international level, Perez represented Panama in 121 matches, scoring 43 goals, making him the country's all-time leading goalscorer. He captained the team during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and played a crucial role in Panama's qualification for the tournament.
Later Career
After leaving Pachuca in 2008, Perez had brief stints with teams in the United States, Spain, and Colombia. In 2015, he returned to his home country to play for Deportivo Anzoategui, where he captured the Primera Division title.
Legacy
Blas Perez is considered one of the greatest players in Panamanian football history. His goal-scoring ability and leadership have left an indelible mark on the sport in his country. He retired from professional football in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of success and inspiration.
More About Blas Perez
- He is known for his exceptional heading ability, earning the nickname "El Ratón" (The Mouse).
- In the 2005-06 season, Perez scored 28 goals for Necaxa, becoming the first player in Mexican league history to score more than 20 goals in a single tournament.
- He was named the Panamanian Football Player of the Year three times (2007, 2009, and 2013).
