TEGUCIGALPA, HONDURAS — A goal in the 42nd minute stood up as the winner as Cuba defeated Canada 1-0 in opening group stage action at the CONCACAF Under-20 men’s soccer championship at the Estadio Nacional Chelato Ucles on Saturday.
Kevin Martin Torriente scored for Cuba who got three shots on target compared to two for Canada.
The Canadians, who held a large advantage in ball possession (71 per cent), are in Group A with the United States, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Cuba. Cuba received a red card in the 72nd minute but managed to fend out the Canadians’ late charge.
The U.S. hammered St. Kitts and Nevis 10-0 in earlier action. Canada will play St. Kitts and Nevis on Wednesday.