Canada took a major step towards Copa America 2024 qualification as Stephen Eustaquio’s 85th-minute strike gave them victory in their CONCACAF League of Nations quarterfinal first leg and a first win in Jamaica for 35 years.
Porto midfielder Eustaquio slotted in from Richie Laryea’s surging run and low delivery, restoring the lead Canada had initially established through Jonathan David during first-half added time.
Shamar Nicholson fired in Jamaica’s equaliser 13 minutes after the break but their opponents will seal their place at Copa America if they avoid defeat in the second leg at Ontario’s BMO Field on Tuesday.
In a game rearranged for Saturday after heavy rain flooded parts of Kingston’s Independence Park on Friday, David capitalised on a skilful turn and cross from Cyle Larin to score his 26th international goal as part of a dominant first half in which his side had four of the five attempts on target.
The Reggae Boyz went closest before David broke the deadlock, Aston Villa attacker Leon Bailey hitting the post with a shot from Bobby Decordova-Reid’s corner.
