CARSON: Oscar Santis netted a first half goal as Guatemala squeezed past Jamaica 1-0 today in the Group C opener for both squads in the Concacaf Gold Cup at Carson, California.
The decider came in the 32nd minute.
A back-to-the-goal Darwin Lom collected a deflection after a long feed, then backheeled the ball towards the goal as Santis found space from 15 feet away and buried the chance past diving goalie Andre Blake.
Jamaica controlled possession (54.3%) and outshot Guatemala 15-11, but just two of the Reggae Boyz’ shots were on target.
Blake finished with three saves.
Guatemala goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen was credited with two saves.
Panama also won its first Group C match today, downing Guadeloupe 5-2.
The two group co-leaders will square off on Saturday in Austin, Texas.
Jamaica will face Guadeloupe on Saturday.