Dominican Republic – Canada and the United States are both through to the semifinals of the 2023 Concacaf Women’s Under-20 Championship in the Dominican Republic after posting victories on Sunday in Group A.
Canada started the day at the Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez with a 5-0 win versus Panama.
The Canadians had a very productive eight-minute span in the first half in which they scored three goals, beginning with Zoe Markesini’s opening score in the 22’.
An own goal from Panama’s Alejandra Garay in the 25’ and then Olivia Smith’s first goal of the day in the 29’ gave Canada a commanding 3-0 lead before the first half-hour had elapsed.
Smith then chipped in with her second goal of the day in the 41’ for a 4-0 Canada lead at the break.
The Canadians never let up and extended the lead to 5-0 in the 51’ through Amanda Allen, who’s scored proved to be the final goal of the day.
In the nightcap, the U.S. topped Jamaica 4-0 on the strength of a hat trick from Madeline Dahlien.
Dahlien struck early in the 11’ for a goal that held until halftime. The U.S. then improved upon that 1-0 lead with two quick goals after the re-start, the first being Dahlien’s second of the day in the 47’, followed by Tessa Dellarose in the 49’.
The day was then capped by Dahlien’s third goal of the day in the 79’, rounding out the 4-0 scoreline.
Group B will wrap up on Monday with a battle of unbeaten teams between Mexico and Costa Rica. Mexico have the advantage in terms of goal difference, so El Tricolor only require a draw to capture the group.
The second game will pit Puerto Rico and host nation Dominican Republic, with each side seeking their first win of the Championship.
