Canada and Costa Rica secure berths at Copa America in the United States after winning CONCACAF playoffs. Canada defeated Trinidad and Tobago 2-0, while Costa Rica overcame Honduras 3-1 at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas. Cyle Larin and Jacob Shuffleburg scored for Canada.
Costa Rica’s victory sees them in Group D against Brazil, Colombia, and Paraguay. Manager Gustavo Alfaro stated, “Today was a final, a decisive match…We took a step forward and the result gives us confidence despite the fact we know we need to improve.” The Copa America will take place from June 20 to July 14 in the US.
In the post-match press conference, Canada’s head coach Mauro Biello expressed his joy, saying, “I’m super-happy for all our fans…To be able to be in Copa America, to play against the world champions, this is what all the soccer fans, the sports fans in this country want to see.” Michaell Chirinos put Honduras ahead, but Costa Rica’s Orlando Galo, Warren Madrigal, and Jefferson Brenes secured the win.
