Guyana took all three points from Puerto Rico in the League B phase of the CONCACAF Nations League on Wednesday. The visitors secured a 1-0 victory in San Juan, capping off a disciplined defensive performance. It was a result that kept their momentum going after 5 straight wins. The hosts failed to register a single shot on target throughout the 90 minutes.
By then, the game had settled into a physical rhythm, with neither side willing to concede space. A yellow card for Wilfredo Rivera at the 22nd mark highlighted the pace quickening in midfield. To be fair, Puerto Rico looked uncomfortable without possession, struggling to string passes together.
We had called for an away win before kick-off, giving it 40% confidence based on their recent form. That assessment proved correct as Guyana bottled little mistakes from the hosts. And here's the thing, the visitors rarely looked in danger until the final third.
The decisive moment arrived late, when Osaze De Rosario converted a penalty in the 78th minute. It was his side's only shot on target all afternoon, making the goal all the more precious. Puerto Rico offered no response, their attacks fizzling out against a resolute back line. The goalkeeper made 2 saves to keep a clean sheet.
The statistics tell a story of missed opportunities for the home side. They managed 8 wins of attack but created 0 big chances, registering no shots on target. Guyana held 54% of the ball and landed 3 shots on target to secure the win.
The match was punctuated by disciplinary issues, with 8 yellow cards shown in total. Referees booked players from both camps, including Raushan Ritch and Callum·Stretch before the break. Substitutions began early for Puerto Rico, with Roberto Luis Ydrach coming on at 10 minutes.
The result leaves Puerto Rico looking over their shoulders in the standings. Guyana extend their lead at the top of League B, moving further away from the relegation zone. The 1-0 scoreline reflects a game decided by 3 or 4 moments rather than sustained pressure. They will now look to build on this foundation in the next fixture.
