I got this from the SI website, "comments" section, but if true, it does support your point:
@KyleBeckerman tells me Panamanian players were begging US to take it easy on the field. "I (Beckerman) told them I got to play hard to get to Brazil."
46 posted on 10/16/2013 6:35:58 AM PDT by safeasthebanks
("The most rewarding part, was when he gave me my money!" - Dr. Nick)