In the second round of the group stage of the America's Cup on June 27th, Ecuador and Jamaica staged an exciting showdown. The game not only tested the technical and tactical level of the two teams, but also showed the players' spirit of hard work on the field.
Shortly after the start of the first half, Ecuador created a threat by utilizing a quick counterattack. Incapié's precise pass from the right side penetrated the Jamaican defense. Unfortunately, the pass happened to hit Jamaican defender Casey Palmer's leg, and the ball changed lanes and flew into his own goal, giving Ecuador an unexpected 1-0 lead. The goal demoralized the Jamaicans, while the Ecuadorians continued to attack with renewed vigour.
However, the Jamaican team did not give up. They gradually stabilized their position, and through active scrambling and tacit cooperation, they gradually recovered the rhythm of the game. In a defensive counterattack, Greg Leigh was infringed by an Ecuadorian player in the penalty area, and the referee decisively awarded a penalty kick. Jamaica's top penalty taker, Kendry Pais, calmly stepped up to the penalty spot and scored a one-touch goal to equalize the score at 1-1.
The second half resumed without any let-up and both sides continued to fight for the victory. The Ecuadorian team gradually took the initiative on the field with the advantage of the home field and more abundant physical strength. In the 60th minute, the Ecuadorian team quickly launched a counterattack after a break in the midfield, Antonio received a direct ball from a teammate outside the penalty area, slightly adjusted and then fired a shot, the ball flew into the corner of the goal like an arrow, Ecuadorian team once again exceeded the score, 2-1 lead.
The Ecuadorian team's morale was even higher after the goal, and they continued to attack the Jamaican team's hinterland. In the 80th minute, Ecuador had a great opportunity to attack. Alan Minda formed a one-two punch after receiving a fine direct pass from a teammate. He calmly dribbled past the goalkeeper and easily sent the ball into the empty net, sealing the win for Ecuador.
As the final whistle blew, Ecuador gained three valuable points with a 3-1 victory over Jamaica.
