Canada took a 1-0 lead over Guatemala in their CONCACAF Gold Cup quarter-final match on Sunday, thanks to a penalty converted by Jonathan David. The match, held at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, saw Canada capitalize on an opportunity in the first half.
The penalty was awarded after Herrera fouled Oluwaseyi in the box. David stepped up and calmly slotted the ball home with a right-footed shot, giving Canada the advantage in the 29th minute. This goal was the lone marker in the first half.
The first half was not without its drama. Shaffelburg received a yellow card for a foul on Escobar in the 38th minute, marking the first caution of the match for Team Canada. Later, Shaffelburg was shown a second yellow card, resulting in a red card for the Canadian player. Despite being reduced to ten men, Canada managed to maintain their lead going into halftime.
Canada entered the quarter-final match with a strong defensive record, having conceded only one goal in their three previous matches. They finished top of Group B with seven points, securing their place in the quarter-finals with a 2-0 victory over El Salvador. In that game, Jonathan David also scored, along with Tajon Buchanan, with both goals coming in quick succession in the second half.
Looking ahead, the winner of the Canada vs. Guatemala match will advance to the semi-finals to face either the USA or Costa Rica. Other quarter-final matches included Mexico against Saudi Arabia and Panama against Honduras.
