The Lady Jaguars got off to the perfect start in the CONCACAF Women’s U20 Football Championship, defeating Nicaragua 3-1 yesterday at the Felix Sanchez Olympic Stadium, Dominican Republic.
It was an efficient performance from the Guyana team, who secured the results via goals from Audrey Narine, Jade Vuyfhuis and Serena McDonald in the 18th, 49th and 62nd minute respectively. On target for Nicaragua was Jaclyn Gilday in the 64th minute.
Guyana’s starting XI, which didn’t feature a locally based player, consisted of Anessa O’Brien, Anaya Johnson, Jessica Myers, Kiana Khedoo, Brianne Desa [C], Vuyfhuis, Nailah Rowe, McDonald, Jenea Knight, Narine and Shanice Alfred. Tiandi Smith, the only locally based player, entered the match as a substitute in the 65th minute.
According to statistics provided by Data Factory, the Lady Jaguars recorded seven shots, six of which were on target and resulted in three goals. They completed 140 passes from 193 attempted at a conversion rate is of 73%. This resulted in an overall possession stat of 43%. Guyana also recorded 18 steals.
On the other side, Nicaragua recorded eight attempts, with five finding the target resulting in one conversion. 240 passes were completed from 300 attempts at a completion rate of 80%, which translated into an overall possession amount of 57%. The Nicaraguans also recorded four corner-kicks.
With the win, Guyana climb atop group-D ahead of Mexico due to their superior goal differential. The Lady Jaguars will now battle Puerto Rico in their second clash tomorrow at the same venue. In their final group match, Guyana will oppose Mexico on the 27th.
According to CONCACAF, the top three teams from each of the four groups will progress to the knockout round alongside the four qualifiers from previous section. The eventual finalists will qualify for the 2020 FIFA World Cup.
