Vanessa Gilles scores in 50th appearance for Canada in 2-0 win over Mexico at Pinatar Cup

Casey Stoney Secures First Victory as Canada Coach with 2-0 Win Over Mexico

Casey Stoney, the newly appointed Canada coach, earned her first victory as the sixth-ranked Canadian women’s team triumphed over No. 31 Mexico with a hard-fought 2-0 win at the Pinatar Cup in Murcia, Spain. The match was a physical battle, with Vanessa Gilles marking her 50th cap with a goal and Adriana Leon adding a late strike to seal the victory for Canada.

Mexico posed a tough challenge for Canada, creating more scoring chances in the first half. However, the game took a turn when Mexican defender Annia Mejia received a second yellow card and was sent off in the 40th minute. Stoney expressed concerns about her players’ safety due to the physical nature of the game.

The breakthrough for Canada came in the 51st minute when Olivia Smith’s corner found Jordyn Huitema, who set up Gilles for the opening goal. Gilles, a standout center back from Ottawa, scored her eighth goal in her last eight matches, solidifying her importance to the team.

Gilles, who made her senior debut in 2019, has become a key player for Canada. Stoney commended her leadership and contribution to the team, emphasizing her significance in the squad. Goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan secured her 30th clean sheet for Canada in the match.

Leon doubled Canada’s lead in the 89th minute with her 42nd international goal, capping off a well-executed play by Nichelle Prince and Evelyne Viens. Despite Mexico’s physicality, Canada dominated possession and outshot their opponents, showcasing their resilience and tactical prowess.

Stoney praised her team’s performance, acknowledging the tough challenge posed by Mexico. The victory marked a significant milestone for Stoney as she continues to shape the Canadian team according to her vision.

Canada’s revamped roster showcased depth and experience, with several players stepping up to fill key roles. The team’s cohesive gameplay and tactical adjustments proved effective against Mexico, setting the stage for further success in the tournament.

The Canadian women’s team’s unbeaten streak continues, with the victory over Mexico extending their impressive run. With a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, Canada looks poised for a successful campaign under Stoney’s guidance.

As Canada prepares to face Taiwan in their final match of the tournament, Stoney’s impact as the new head coach is evident in the team’s performance and resilience on the field. The future looks bright for the Canadian women’s team under Stoney’s leadership as they aim for greater success on the international stage.