International Recap: Canada Advances to Gold Cup Semifinal
On Saturday night, Canada battled against Costa Rica for the second time this Gold Cup, this time in the quarterfinal round of the tournament. Reign FC players Jordyn Huitema and Quinn both appeared in the Starting Xi in Canada’s 1-0 win. Huitema played the entire first half and Quinn played until the 65th minute of the match.
After taking down Costa Rica 3-0 in the group stage of the tournament, Canada started the game with confidence. Huitema was involved in much of the forward action, getting involved near goal just two minutes into the match. Though Canada continued to make chances in the attacking half, Cosa Rica was dangerous on the counterattack, challenging the Canadians defense.
To end the first half, it was once again Canada nearly finding the back of the net, deep into stoppage time. Adriana Leon, who is tied for the most goals scored in the Gold Cup, chipped the ball toward an empty net, but Costa Rica made a clearance off the goal line to keep the score level going into halftime.
Both teams continued to work hard into the second half, vying for their spot in the semifinal. In the net, both goalkeepers came up big for their team. Solera in net for Costa Rica made six saves to preserve the shutout, while Sheridan had a crucial save for Canada near the end of the match, using her foot to keep the ball clear of the net.
The game-winning goal was finally scored in the first half of extra time. Jessie Fleming chipped a free kick into the box 104 minutes into the match and Evelyne Viens was there to head the ball into the back of the net and take the lead for Canada in extra time. Though Costa Rica continued to fight for an equalizer with the hope of sending the match to penalty kicks, they came up short as Canada’s backline remained firm until the final whistle.
Canada now takes on the United States Women’s National Team in the semifinal on Wednesday, March 6 at 7:15 p.m. PT. Fan can find the best streaming option for their region HERE.