(Frisco) Cyle Larin and Jacob Shaffelburg scored in the second half and Canada beat Trinidad and Tobago 2-0 to advance to the Copa America in Nations League action on Saturday of CONCACAF.
Trinidad and Tobago, ranked 96e in the world, defended itself well against the numerous offensive waves of the Canadians, 50are.
The Maple Leaf representatives had possession of the ball 63% of the time and obtained 11 corner kicks compared to only one for their opponents during the first 45 minutes of play without being able to get on the board.
Canada finally broke the tie at 61e minute when Tajon Buchanan cut towards the inside of the penalty area. He passed the ball to Larin, who beat goalkeeper Denzil Smith for his 29e goal on the international stage.
The job was done for Canada, even if it took time to get there. Trinidad and Tobago tried to tie the game, but Quebec goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau blocked an attempt by the dangerous Levi Garcia in the 85the minute.
Called on in relief during the match, Shaffelburg then hit the crossbar in the 86the minute, then he doubled his team’s lead five minutes later. It was his second goal with Canada.
Canada will therefore be one of six CONCACAF nations invited to the Copa America. He will be in Group A with Argentina (first), Peru (33e) and Chile (42e). He will begin the South American championship against Argentina, the reigning world champion, on June 20 in Atlanta.
The Argentines won 5-0 in the only match between the two countries so far. It was May 2010, in Buenos Aires.