Hosts, Spain win the group and put Canada on the edge of elimination
In a crucial final pool-play match at the FIH Olympic Qualifier tournament in Valencia, Spain dealt a significant blow to Canada’s 2024 Olympic hopes by securing a victory with five fourth-quarter goals. This outcome places Canada’s fate in the hands of an unlikely scenario, requiring Malaysia to defeat England by five goals exactly for them to have a chance of survival.
The match, held in the packed Valencia stadium, treated the audience to an intense back-and-forth affair between hosts Spain and Team Canada. Despite the loud and raucous environment, Canada managed to jump out to an early lead in the first quarter. Anna Mollenhauer scored for Canada after a pair of penalty corner chances, deflecting a top of the circle shot from Sara McManus.
Canada’s Anna Mollenhauer scores the match’s opening goal. Photos/Vicente Vidal Fernandez
Canada defended bravely throughout the game, making sporadic forays into the Spanish side. Rowan Harris was keeping Canada in the lead as she made several top-class saves off penalty corner sets. However, the momentum shifted entirely in the fourth quarter. Despite Canada’s stout defense, Spain managed to break through, scoring four goals in quick succession. The Spanish side’s strength and quality chances proved decisive.
Ultimately, it was the fourth quarter that made the difference, allowing Spain to entertain their home crowd and finish the pool stage with a perfect 3-0 record, securing the top spot. Unless there is a significant upset in the GB/Malaysia game, Canada is set to fall to third place in the pool, missing out on the semifinals and putting away their 2024 Olympic aspirations for good.
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