SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – Offenses were on display early, but defenses prevailed as Dominican Republic and Guatemala drew 1-1 in Group D of League B of the 2022-23 Concacaf Nations League at the Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

The hosts took a 1-0 lead thanks to a rocket from long-range by Nowend Lorenzo in the 12th minute. The scoring play originated when forward Rafael Mata stripped the ball from a defender and set up his teammate for the go-ahead goal.

Oscar Santis then equalized for the visitors with a blast inside the box in the 26th minute. Carlos Mejia provided the long service over the top to place it where Santis could receive with his chest and convert.

Both teams continued on the offensive through the latter stages of the first half, and despite a pair of solid attempts, neither side could extend their lead and went into the locker rooms tied at 1-1.

The second half was a showcase for defensive players, as offenses saw limited chances. The high-paced first half saw teams start to play on tired legs, making it a defensive showcase.

Rubio Rubin, who came off the bench in the second half, nearly had a match-winning header in the 90th minute off a cross into the box from Santis.

Through corner kicks and long-range attempts, the Guatemalans looked a bit closer towards the victory in the dying moments, but in the end, they were forced the split points. 

With four points each, both nations are three points removed from group leaders French Guiana and last place Belize. The two nations will look to improve on their 1-1-1 records when they meet again in a handful of days.