Photos: Wikimedia Commons
CHICAGO, Illinois – Aston Villa star Leon Bailey missed a crucial penalty before late substitute Brandon Vázquez netted a sensational equalizer, as Jamaica Reggae Boyz had their hopes of a win dashed in a disappointing 1-1 draw with reigning champions United States in the opening game of the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
With time ticking away at Soldier Field here late Saturday night, the 24-year-old Vázquez smashed a loose ball past goalkeeper Andre Blake from six yards out only six minutes after coming off the bench, to ensure the hosts took a share of the points.
Jamaica led on 13 minutes through Damion Lowe’s close range header but then squandered an excellent opportunity to double their lead when Bailey missed from the spot in the 29th minute.
Up 1-0 at the break, Jamaica were forced to defend their lead stoutly in the second half, before things unraveled at the end.
“We kind of knew it would be intense. I think we could have done a lot of things better than we did but in general, we should be happy and respectful for this point,” said Jamaican head coach, Heimir Hallgrimsson.
“We said before this game we would respect a point and it’s a group, so to have a point against the best team in the group – the highest ranked team in the group – is always a good start.
