Sinclair closing in on scoring record
Christine Sinclair continues to edge towards the all-time international scoring record, something she could achieve 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 over 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, and 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. After that they line up for an exhibition game against England in Manchester on April 5 before taking part in 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 will conclude its Group E matches against the Netherland on June 20 in Reims. Canada was the better team against Scotland, but once again had trouble finishing off scoring chances, as they did in a scoreless draw with Iceland in their opener on Wednesday. Canada recorded 12 attempts on goal to Scotland’s eight, 48 per cent of the possession time, and five corner kicks in the contest. “The first game we were a little frustrated that we created a ton of chances and didn’t put any away,” Sinclair said. “Similar (on 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, who started up front alongside Sinclair, was unable to beat Scottish goalkeeper Lee Alexander with her left-footed attempt. In the 35th minute, Sinclair came close to putting Canada ahead, sent in alone by Ashley Lawrence, but missed the target with her left-footed shot while pressured by Scottish defender Rachel Corsie.
Using a 3-5-2 system against Scotland, Canada played a more direct game then they did against Iceland two days earlier.
Not surprisingly, the Scots are a hard-working side who don’t hesitate to stick a tackle. Scotland midfielder Nicola Docherty was booked for a very late challenge on Desiree Scott eight minutes into the second half. Lawrence earned the penalty kick for Canada in the 80th minute, taking on Scottish midfielder Chloe Arthur down the left side before 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.
Late in the match, there was concern when Canadian midfielder Diana Matheson had to be replaced. She’s recovering from a foot injury and it seemed to be bothering her as she left the field.