The Canadian women’s national soccer team closed out a turbulent year in commanding fashion, defeating South Korea 5-1 in an international friendly on Tuesday. Sixth-ranked Canada showcased its depth and talent, with goals from Marie-Yasmine Alidou, Olivia Smith, Vanessa Gilles, Adriana Leon, and an own goal by South Korea. Lee Hyok-yeong scored the lone goal for 19th-ranked Korea during the second half.
Interim coach Cindy Tye, stepping in for this international window, rotated her squad, making seven changes from the scoreless draw against Iceland last Friday. The team dominated the match, outshooting South Korea 22-4 and maintaining 60% possession. The win marked a positive end to a year filled with challenges, including scandals and the search for a new head coach.
Notable moments included the debut of 28-year-old Megan Reid, who qualifies for Canada through her Ottawa-born mother, and two young talents, Jeneva Hernandez Gray and Nyah Rose, earning their first senior caps off the bench.
Canada’s 2024 campaign ended with a 9-0-7 record, highlighted by strong performances but marred by controversy, including the fallout from the Paris Olympics drone-spying scandal. The governing body, Canada Soccer, is undergoing significant changes as it seeks a fresh direction under new leadership.
Despite challenges, the team’s performance against South Korea signals hope for the future, as they look forward to a new head coach and a renewed focus on success in 2025.
Source: Swifteradio.com
