Canadian women win 2008 Cyprus Cup

March 12, 2008

CSA & Whitecaps FC

Canada's women's national team won the 2008 Cyprus Cup after a 3-2 final victory over the USA U-20 women's side on Wednesday.

Two goals from Vancouver Whitecaps striker Christine Sinclair and a single strike from teenager Jonelle Filigno gave Even Pellerud's side a three-goal lead at half time. Though the young Americans struck back with two goals in the final quarter hour of the match at the GSP Stadium in Nicosia, Canada held on to win the six-nation competition after out-shooting their North American rivals 16 to five.

Sinclair proved to be a handful for Tony DiCicco's side from kickoff, as the Burnaby, BC, native created scoring chances in the opening eight minutes of the game. She put Canada in front on nine minutes after connecting with a cross from Whitecaps midfielder Sophie Schmidt.

Schmidt again played provider for Canada's second goal, as Filigno headed home on 23 minutes before the Canadians seemed to put the game out of reach when Sinclair scored her second goal seven minutes before the break.

Sinclair was unlucky not to have a hat-trick after hitting the crossbar before Filigno misplayed the rebound on the hour mark. At the other end, Canada goalkeeper Erin McLeod stopped an deflected American opportunity just past the midway point of the half before the Canadians had further minutes later.

USA U-20's pulled a goal back on 76 minutes with a first-time volley finish before Whitecaps midfielder Candace Chapman allowed the Americans to score a second goal on 83 minutes when she slipped while in possession of the ball for a 3-2 scoreline.

Despite the late American rally, Canada held on to claim the Cyprus Cup title and will be full of confidence ahead of CONCACAF Women's Olympic qualifying in Mexico early next month. Pellerud's side will complete their European trip with an international friendly versus France in the Paris suburb of Meaux on March 14.

In order to qualify for Beijing, Canada needs to finish as one of the top two teams in the six-nation tournament in order to win a berth to the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament later this year.

In Mexico, Canada is hoping to draw inspiration from letters and photos featuring the 'We Believe' theme. Canadian fans and clubs (from all walks of sport and life) are encouraged to send their support to the team via mail (Women’s national team, 580-375 Water Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 5C6), fax (778.330.1396) or email (believe@soccercan.ca). Clubs are especially encouraged to mail signed team photos or short video messages.

Canada line-up v USA U-20's (Cyprus Cup final - Whitecaps players in bold)
18-Erin McLeod; 11-Randee Hermus, 10-Martina Franko, 9-Candace Chapman, 17-Alexandra Marton; 19-Jonelle Filigno, 8-Diana Matheson, 6-Sophie Schmidt (4-Clare Rustad 31'), 7-Rhian Wilkinson; 21-Jodi-Ann Robinson, 12-Christine Sinclair


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