ANALYSIS – Despite the fact that the CAS rejected the CANWNT appeal, the Canadians still somehow qualified for the final eight of Paris 2024 at the Stade de Nice in Nice, France. As was the case in the previous game, Vanessa Gilles continues to shine for her team as Canadian players like Ashley Lawrence and Jessie Fleming also continue to create fantastic scoring chances for their players. As a result, the CANWNT advances to the knockout stage of the Paris 2024 Olympics.
CANWNT Advances to Knockout Round Despite Improbable Odds
Vanessa Gilles Is Playing Big for the CANWNT
Vanessa Gilles, a centre-back for the CANWNT, leads the team with two goals scored. That is a remarkable stat, this is especially true when knowing that Gilles is a centre-back, who is not expected to score goals.
This is what Gilles said after the game was finished (Source: CBC Olympics X Account):
This is the second-time Gilles scored for Canada in Paris 2024 (English version of the CANWNT goal seen here from CBC). She also played well defensively, which included some good defensive plays made in the first half. This time she scored following a free kick from Canada’s captain Fleming.
It is also important to note that with this assist, Fleming has scored one goal and dished out two assists. She also played a big role in assisting Cloé Lacasse’s goal against New Zealand. This is what Fleming said about her assist (Source: Gregory Strong of CBC):
“I put it in a dangerous area and we’ve got so many good targets in there,” Fleming said. “Luckily Van got on the end of it.”
The CANWNT Was the More Dangerous Team
Colombia had their moments, but there was not a team more prepared to score goals than Canada. Their ability to create clear-cut scoring opportunities can be seen throughout the game. Some examples include:
- Adriana Leon had a chance to score in the 14th minute, with Jordyn Huitema delivering a fantastic pass, but was unable to convert on the scoring opportunity.
- There was also a play where Ashley Lawrence delivered a fantastic pass within the box, with the Jordyn Huitema flick pass to Nichelle Prince being turned over.
There was also another instance when the Colombian goalkeeper gave up a big rebound from a long-range shot, which Huitema could not get to. There was also another play where Evelyne Viens made a good run but was just ahead of the ball to make a connection.
The Defence of the CANWNT Deserves Credit
As great as Canada was offensively, defensively Canada held their own against Colombia. Many of the shots on goal to goalkeeper, Kailen Sheridan, went right to her. A lot of that has to do with the Canadian defence. They were some nervy moments in certain parts of the game. This includes:
- The 77th minute, where Colombia got in a good position to score, but Canada made it hard for them, as a result, Caicedo’s shot went straight to the Canadian goalkeeper, Sheridan.
- Jade Rose did a fantastic job of guarding Linda Caicedo, throughout the game.
Gilles, Kadeisha Buchanan, and Rose all played a huge role in making sure that Canada came away with the win.
Other Factors and How to Watch the Game
There were certain instances that Colombia made some good defensive plays and were able to stall the Canadian defence a bit. It was shown on the scoreboard, as they gave up only one goal, despite some of the pressure Canada exerted on the Colombian defence. Also, late in the second half, Colombia was able to exert some pressure on the Canadian defence, even creating a few corners for the Colombians late in the game.
Also, despite the loss, Colombia (nicknamed the Las Chicas Superpoderosas), like Canada, advanced to the quarterfinals stage of the Paris 2024 Olympics. This is because Colombia had a better goal-differential than both Brazil and Australia to take one of the two best third place finishes in the Summer Olympics. That game will take place on August 3, 2024, at Stade de Lyon, Décines-Charpieu at 11:00am ET.
READ MORE: The CANWNT Starts Olympic Campaign with A Win
After the appeal by Canada Soccer was denied by the CAS, Canada was still able to get past the group stage of Paris 2024. They have also shown character, as they came back from behind twice against New Zealand and second-ranked team in the world, France to win both games.
As for Canada, they will face the 2016 Summer Olympic champions, Germany, at the Stade de Marseille, Marseille on July 3, 2024, at 1:00pm ET. That game will be televised nationally on CBC.
Photo Credit: CANWNT X Account on July 31, 2024.
