Canada’s U23 mens soccer team began its Tokyo Olympics qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over El Salvador in Group B action in Guadalajara Friday.
Two first half goals by 22-year-old Tajon Buchanan provided Canada the perfect start to the two-week-long tournament. Buchanan, who plays his club football for New England Revolution in Major League Soccer, scored his first in the 17th minute after some good work on the left wing beating a defender and slotting past the onrushing keeper. And he doubled the lead four minutes later with a fine strike from outside the box.
Loading ...But despite Friday’s good result, Canada’s coach sees room for improvement.
“We’ve got to find those little gaps and exploit them in midfield,” said Canadian coach Mauro Biello following the game. “We had one and a half sessions in building out of the back and there were some bumps there. I think we’re going to continue and improve that.”
Canada next play Haiti Monday before playing their final group match against Honduras Thursday. Check out photos from Canada’s match versus El Salvador below:
Eight teams are competing for the two available Olympics berths at the Concacaf Men’s Olympic Qualifying Championship. The best two teams from each group move on to the semifinals, the winners of which will qualify for Tokyo. Mexico and USA are expected to progress from Group A. The qualifying tournament wraps up with the final Tuesday, March 30.
