CONCACAF Preliminary Gold Cup Semi Finals

The following article provides an oversight for matches and tournaments taking place in 2020.

CONCACAF Preliminary Gold Cup Semi Finals

 

October 6, 2020

Nicaragua v Cuba

 

Nicaragua and Cuba faced off without a change in line-up in the crucial Semi Final.

 

It was Cuba who struck early in the second minute, with Jean Rodríguez rushing beyond the Nicaraguan defence and slotting early before the goalkeeper had time to react.

 

Cuba continued all the play across the first twenty minutes as they took charge, working little through balls to advance beyond defensive lines. Nicaragua were sharper with their tackles, and their goalkeeper developed a faster response time in his rushed saves as the half progressed.

 

That was brought down as Maykel Reyes needed two attempts to score; the first was right in front of goal, before his header reached the back of the net.

 

Francisco Flores earned a yellow card for Nicaragua as they struggled to gain any real possession, with Cuba playing for the 2-0 win. Nicaragua did finally take charge along the wings, only to not be able to have the final shot as Cuba’s defence consistently held firm.

 

 

October 7, 2020

Dominican Republic v Dominica

 

The Dominican Republic swapped their right and left midfielders from their final group game.

 

That mattered little as the Republic took charge of the match in the third minute, with Ronaldo Vásquez receiving a through ball an making no mistake with his right boot.

 

The Republic kept Dominica deep in their defence for long periods with tackles ensuring the ball was placed into touch. And though they had other shots, the side struggled for a second goal.

 

After the break Dominica showed signs of attack, though the Republic defence held firm. In the 73rd minute, Dominica’s Darryl Longdon gave away a penalty as he slid to halt the Republic’s second goal. Instead, Jean López stepped up and slotted into the left-hand side of the goal, almost sealing a Final berth for his side.

 

The final minutes were played out as the Dominican Republic earned a place in the last Preliminary match against Cuba.