Jamaica U20’s fail in World Cup bid

MEXICO CITY, Mexico:

Jamaica suffered a heartbreaking 3-1 extra-time defeat to Canada in the Concacaf Under-20 Championships on Wednesday night to bring their hopes of qualifying for the Under-20 World Cup to a screeching halt.

With the win, Canada advanced to the semi-finals and earned qualification for both the World Cup and the Los Angeles Olympics.

In their quarterfinal match at the Estadio Cuauhtémoc, an exciting first half produced no goal, with both sides wasting chances.

However, it was Canada who took the lead at the 57th minute when Liam MacKenzie ran through the Jamaican midfield, beat several defenders, and shot past keeper Joshua Grant.

Canada continued to create chances, with Marius Aiyenero having a goal ruled out for offside by VAR in the 73rd minute.

Jamaica drew level in the 87th minute after substitute Giovanni Taylor was fouled in the box. Jahmarie Nolan stepped up to bury the resulting penalty, marking his fourth goal of the tournament and the fourth-straight game Jamaica scored in the final five minutes of regular time.

Canada put the match to bed in added time, with MacKenzie converting from the penalty spot in the 93rd minute, before Max Vogele scored from the edge of the box in the 116th minute.