With a controversial penalty, Jamaica capped a three-goal comeback in a wild second half, beating Canada 3-2 on Tuesday to advance to the Copa América and the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals.
The Reggae Boyz salvaged the tie 4-4 on aggregate and continued on top by away goal criterion. After losing at home, Canada will have to resign itself to seeking the right to play in the Copa América as one of CONCACAF’s six playoff guests in March.
Canada started the second game with a 2-1 lead on Saturday in Kingston. This match was postponed for a day due to torrential rain.
As hosts, the Canadians looked to have secured their qualification, thanks to a goal from Alphonso Davies in the 25th to extend the lead to 3-1. But Shamar Nicholson turned around at 63 and 65.
Ismael Kone gave Canada the lead again in the 69th minute.
With 15 minutes to go, Mexican referee César Ramos awarded a penalty for a handball by Stephen Eustaquio, who was visibly trying to avoid contact with the ball.
The maximum sanction was ratified after consulting the video refereeing (VAR). Bobby Reid scored from 11 steps in the 78th minute
Jamaica found themselves a man down in the 84th minute, due to a second yellow for Demarai Gray. However, he resisted attacks from the Canadians.
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