Casey Stoney’s debut as head coach of Canada’s women’s soccer team offered a mixed showcase in their 1-1 draw against China at the Pinatar Cup in Murcia, Spain, on Wednesday.
Julia Grosso’s 16th-minute goal gave sixth-ranked Canada an early lead, but 17th-ranked China equalized in the 58th minute through Jin Kun. A crucial diving save by Canadian goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo in stoppage time secured the draw after a threatening Chinese corner kick.
Stoney, named head coach in January, praised Canada’s disciplined first-half performance but expressed concerns about their second-half play, attributing struggles to physicality from China and suboptimal officiating. Missing key players, Canada’s squad featured notable inclusions, including Vanessa Gilles as captain in Jessie Fleming’s absence and three debutants: Carly Wickenheiser, Samantha Chang, and Ella Ottey.
Canada continues the Pinatar Cup Saturday against Mexico and concludes Tuesday against Taiwan.
Source: Swifteradio.com
