Sinclair zeros in on scoring record

Christine Sinclair continues to edge toward the all-time international scoring record, which may be achieved on the biggest stage this summer.

Sinclair scored from the penalty spot for the Canadian women’s national soccer team in a 1-0 win against Scotland at the Algarve Cup in Lagos, Portugal on Friday. It was Sinclair’s 179th international goal, which puts her five behind retired American striker Abby Wambach.

“It’s our last tournament before the World Cup and we’re just getting our tournament preparedness down in terms of recovery, being able to play multiple formations to give other teams different looks and challenges,” Sinclair said. “I think it’s going well.”

Canada will play their third and final match at the Algarve Cup on Wednesday against a yet- to- be determined opponent and then have an exhibition game against England in Manchester on April 5 before the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France in June.

Canada will play Cameroon on June 10 in Montpellier, New Zealand on June 15 in Grenoble, and conclude their Group E matches against the Netherlands on June 20 in Reims.

Canada was the better team against Scotland, but once again had trouble finishing off opportunities, as had been the case in a scoreless tie against Iceland in their opening match Wednesday. “Obviously, the first game we were a little frustrated that we created a ton of chances and didn’t put anyway,” Sinclair said. “Similar (Friday), but we were able to put one away.”

Canadian striker Jordyn Huitema had an excellent chance in the 31st minute when the ball bounced to her just outside of the Scottish six- yard box. Huitema was unable to beat Scottish goalkeeper Lee Alexander.

In the 35th minute, Sinclair came close to putting Canada ahead, sent in alone by Ashley Lawrence, but missed the target while pressured by Scottish defender Rachel Corsie.

Lawrence earned the penalty kick for Canada in the 80th minute, being tripped just inside the box. Sinclair stepped up to take the kick and slotted it to the left of Alexander, who dove the other way.

“I saw the ’ keeper move early and had half the net to shoot at and, hopefully, I won’t miss that,” Sinclair said. “What gives me confidence is knowing that I’m prepared, I practice penalty shots at the end of every training session, so in the moment you know you’ve done everything you can to be ready.”

Christine Sinclair