The Americans, who allowed their first goal of the tournament when Panama's Blas Perez scored in the 83rd minute, advanced on Saturday to their eighth semifinal in nine Gold Cups.

For Donovan, it was his second goal of the tournament - both coming on penalty kicks.

It was also the American forward's 32nd all-time goal in international play, putting him just two shy of Eric Wynalda.

In Saturday's first quarterfinal, Canada defeated Guatemala 3-0.

The United States will play Canada on Thursday in Chicago.

Donovan has been a nemesis for Panama. He has four goals and two assists in five matches against the Panamanians.

In the 61st minute, Bocanegra headed in a beautiful cross from midfielder DaMarcus Beasley, which stood up as the winner.

Ali Gerba scored twice in the first half as Canada advanced to the semifinals.

It is the first semifinal appearance for Canada since 2002, when it lost to the United States.

Gerba also had a hand in the first goal for Canada, setting up Dwayne De Rosario's tally in the 17th minute.

Off a great buildup following some gritty work in the offensive end, Canada extended the advantage to 2-0 in the 33rd minute as Gerba tapped the ball past goalkeeper Carlos Trigueno.

Just before the half, Gerba struck again. This time, Gerba had a pass from Julian De Guzman deflect off his heel and past Trigueno.