Michael Murillo and Fidel Escobar both started and played the entire game as Panama opened its World Cup against Belgium. The Panamanians acquitted themselves well, before the floodgates opened in the second half. Belgium, helped by assistant coach Thierry Henry, ended up winning 3:0.

Murillo more than held his own against Eden Hazard, and even had a chance to score after making a terrific run in the second half. His shot was saved by Thibaut Courtois. He also earned a yellow card. Escobar had a bad turnover early in the game that almost resulted in a goal, but was more-or-less solid throughout.

The list of current Metros to play in the World Cup now includes Tab Ramos and Marcelo Vega (1998), Clint Mathis (2002), Tim Cahill and Roy Miller (2014), Murillo and Escobar. Alexi Lalas (1998) and Andrew Boyens (2010) both made World Cup teams, but never played a minute.