In a determined effort to bounce back from their opening match defeat, the British Virgin Islands Under 20 football team showcased significant improvement in their second game of the 2024 CONCACAF Under 20 Championship Qualifier against Cuba on Sunday.
However, despite a more competitive performance, the BVI fell short as the Cubans secured a narrow 2-1 victory.
Playing in Group A at the Estadio Nacional in Managua, Nicaragua, Cuba took the lead in the 14th minute with a goal from Captain Karel Perez. The BVI swiftly responded, equalizing 16 minutes later with a well-executed goal by Azarni Callwood.
As the teams entered the second half with everything to play for, the game’s decisive moment unfolded in the 67th minute when Cuba was awarded a penalty, converted by Samuel Rodriguez, securing the crucial three points and positioning them at the top of Group A with an undefeated record of 6 points.
Here’s a look at those highlights.
Despite the loss, the BVI’s performance marked a significant improvement from their previous encounter in 2011, where they suffered a 29-0 defeat against the Cuban team at the under-20 level.
In their first match on Friday, the BVI faced a formidable opponent in the host nation, Nicaragua, resulting in an 8-0 loss. Playing at around 9:00 p.m. BVI time, the young squad found themselves under early pressure, conceding two goals within the opening 12 minutes of the game.
The halftime score stood at 4-0, with goals from Joab Gutierrez, Francis Castillo, and Kenler Cayasso. The offensive onslaught from Nicaragua persisted into the second half, with additional goals coming from Andres Martinez (47’, 61’), Fredy Ortiz (56’), and Izamuel Martinez (81’).
Here’s a recap of that game.
The BVI’s next game is on Tuesday, February 27 at 6:00 p.m. BVI time against Belize.