Costa Rica start in style with a 3-0 win over Panama

July 5 – Costa Rica opened their Concacaf W Championship challenge in style with a 3-0 win over Panama.

This is the first time these two nations have met in a Concacaf W final, and it was an impressive start for the Costa Ricans who, in 37th place, are the fourth-highest ranked Concacaf team in the world rankings. Panama is ranked 57th.

Costa Rica were on the scoresheet after just eight minutes when Portland Thorns midfielder Raquel Rodriguez scored from a corner kick taken by Cristin Granados.

In the 24th minute, Costa Rica doubled their lead when Glasgow City striker Priscilla Chinchilla, pressing inside the Panamanian penalty area, won the ball, leaving a pass for Maria Paula Salas to shoot at home.

Two minutes later, Costa Rica would have led three goals if Yenith Bailey in the Panamanian goal had not blocked Melissa Herrera's shot.

Costa Rica kept the pressure on and in the 54th minute a VAR review awarded them a penalty after a foul from Katherine Castello. Costa Rican captain Katherine Alvarado stepped in to shoot home and put the result beyond doubt.

Costa Rica will face Trinidad and Tobago on Friday where a victory will guarantee them a place in the semi-finals for Canada to beat Panama.

Contact the author of this story at moc.l1657105847labto1657105847ofdlr1657105847owedi1657105847sni@n1657105847osloh1657105847cin.l1657105847uap1657105847