Jamaica defeated Canada in a Gold Cup clash quarter final in Phoenix with Andre Blake enjoying an excellent game.
The thrilling encounter ended 2-1 with the Jamaicans through to the last four of the tournament.
The Reggae Boyz started the game on a good note when Shaun Francis latched onto a cross from Darren Mattocks to score in the opening minutes of the clash. The Canadian soccer side could have equalized in the tenth minute through a set piece but CyleLarin sent his effort wide. The Orlando City striker Larin was drafted into the team for the knockout stage as the CONCACAF biennial competition permits.
Mattocks had his own opportunity in the 17th minute but his shot failed to beat Canada keeper Milan Borjan. As play resumed after the break, Romario Williams received a pass from Mattocks before sending his shot past Borjan.
Juliet Hoilett replied for Canada in the 61st minute as his powerful shot beat Andre Blake. The game could have entered extra time but for Blake who kept the scoreline unchanged. Hoilett would have added another but Blake saves hindered him. He denied Scott Arfield as well to send his side further in the tournament.
Jamaica lost the 2015 Gold Cup final so they are hoping to lift the title this time. On the other hand, Canada have not reached the last four of the tournament since 2007.
In the other fixture Mexico defeated Honduras to qualify for the last four. Rodolfo Pizarro scored in the fourth minute and it was enough for El Tri at the University of Phoenix Stadium. The Mexican side are the favourites ahead of their clash against Jamaica in the last four. Both sides met in the group stage where it ended 0-0 but the Jamaicans can shock the defending champs this time.