BOSTON, United States (AFP) - Landon Donovan scored on a penalty kick in the 59th minute and Carlos Bocanegra headed in a goal as the US advanced to the semis of the CONCACAF Gold Cup with a 2-1 win over Panama.

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 semi-final 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 quarter-final, 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 semi-finals.

It is the first semi-final 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.