Venezuela 0–2 Canada

By Alonso Contreras

Canada earned an impressive 2–0 victory over Venezuela in a tense and physical encounter marked by tactical discipline, timely finishing, and multiple disciplinary incidents on both sides. Despite going down to ten men in the second half, Canada maintained control and secured the win with a late goal.

First Half

Canada struck first in the 24th minute when Ismaël Koné finished a well-constructed attack to give the visitors a 1–0 lead. Venezuela attempted to respond with more pressure in midfield, but Canada remained compact and limited the home side to half-chances. The first half closed with a booking for Stephen Eustáquio in stoppage time, as Canada protected its narrow advantage.

The teams entered halftime with Canada leading 1–0.

Second Half

The second half quickly shifted into a physical, card-filled battle. Venezuela’s David Martínez received a yellow card in the 50th minute—and just seven minutes later, he was shown a second yellow, leaving Venezuela with ten men. The numerical advantage didn’t last long for Canada; in the 60th minute, Ismaël Koné, the opening goalscorer, was shown a straight red card, bringing both teams to 10 players.

Venezuela made several substitutions in search of attacking momentum, but Canada handled the pressure well and used fresh legs of their own to stabilize midfield and regain control.

In the 83rd minute, Canada delivered the decisive blow. Substitute Promise David finished a well-placed assist from Niko Sigur, doubling the lead to 2–0 and effectively sealing the match.

Late Incidents

The closing minutes were heated, with a series of Canada bookings: Mathieu Choinière, Richie Laryea, Joel Waterman, and Promise David were all shown yellow cards between the 71st and 90th minutes. Venezuela’s José Hernández was also booked for a late foul.

Despite the tense finish, Canada maintained composure and closed out the match professionally.

Full-Time

Final Score: Venezuela 0, Canada 2

Canada’s victory was built on early efficiency, disciplined defending, and a crucial second goal late in the match. Even with Koné’s red card, the visitors showed resilience and tactical maturity, while Venezuela struggled to capitalize after losing Martínez to dismissal.