Benitez, 19, has been a standout for Panama’s Youth National Teams and earned his first call up to the senior team for a friendly against Venezuela in September. For the 2018-19 season, he has made six starts in the Panamanian Football League for Plaza Amador, including his professional debut Aug. 12, 2018.
The left back made five starts for Panama’s U-20 squad in the 2018 Concacaf Championship and helped lead Panama’s backline which allowed only three goals to win Group D and advance to the qualification stage. Panama then finished second in Group H to qualify for the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup which will take place this May in Poland.
2018/19 (Plaza Amador): Benitez made six starts, including his professional debut Aug. 12 against Alianza in a 0-0 draw.
INTERNATIONAL: The left back made five starts for Panama’s U20 National Team in the 2018 Concacaf Championship. Benitez helped lead Panama’s backline which allowed only three goals in five matches to win Group D and advance to the qualification stage. Panama then finished second in Group H to qualify for the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup. Benitez earned a call-up to Panama’s senior National Team for friendly against Venezuela Sept. 11, 2018.