KANSAS CITY- As the crowd slowly began to fill in for the United States Men’s National Team who were set to play later, Haiti scored to get back into the match. It was 2-1 and all of a sudden Canada started to look vulnerable. But two penalties and a red card later, Canada had put themselves out of reach and into the knockout phase.
Cyle Larin brace sends Canada through to the Knockout Round
Before Cyle Larin got started, Stephen Eustáquio started the match with a moment of brilliance. His free-kick made it 1-0.
5' What a goal by #CanMNT player Stephen Eustáquio!#HAIvCAN | 0-1 | #GoldCup21pic.twitter.com/cayodbnsIZ
— Raheem (@bashirra) July 15, 2021
Haiti threatened multiple times through the end of the second half and looked like the most likely to score next. But in the second half, Cyle Larin showed up in a big way. Larin started by slamming home a rebound, and he was influential in earning the first penalty kick, in which he deposited to make it 3-1. Ayo Akinola came on and was dragged down inside the area on a breakaway, in which a straight red card was given. Junior Hoilett scored to make it 4-1, and that scoreline stood until the final whistle.
Three Thoughts
- Stephen Eustaquio has been one of the most influential midfielders for Canada so far in this tournament. He scored a wonderful goal, and then presumably picked up his second yellow of the tournament so he can clear his slate for the knockout round. While understandable, if I’m Canada, I’m trying to avoid Mexico. The best way I can do that is by beating the US and then dealing with whoever I have to face in the quarterfinals. But then again, what do I know. Eustaquio will now be out of the final group stage match against the USMNT.
- Tajon Buchanan has done a great job at replacing Alphonso Davies. While obviously not like for like, he’s filled in being dangerous down the left and providing service, creating chances. Defensively he’s done well too and will certainly be tested against the USMNT.
- Canada will advance to the knockout round where they will potentially have to face Costa Rica or Jamaica. What does seem to be most important is avoiding Mexico, which would mean getting a positive result against the USMNT on Sunday.
