Jamaica has made history with its first-ever Women’s World Cup victory. The team beat Panama 1-0. Allyson Swaby, the team’s captain, netted the winning goal. The Reggae Girlz started the tournament on a high note, earning their first point at a Women’s World Cup with a draw against France.
The initial half of the match was tense. According to CNN, both teams were striving for their first World Cup win. The score remained at a deadlock despite Jamaica’s onslaught of shots and Panama’s strategic play. However, in the 56th minute, Swaby’s header into the net off a corner kick broke the tie, marking a distinct advantage for Jamaica.
Play-by-Play of Jamaica vs. Panama
The match started with Jamaica taking command, working their way through a crowded midfield and launching numerous corners and goal attempts. Despite these efforts, they struggled to score. In the 33rd minute, Drew Spence made a brilliant run and took a shot, only hitting the side netting. Two minutes later, Vyan Sampson’s powerful long-range shot had to be deflected by Panama’s goalkeeper, Yenith Bailey.
Panama, on the other hand, fought hard to maintain their presence in the match. Their defense managed to repel numerous Jamaican attacks while occasionally testing Jamaica’s backline.
But the Jamaican breakthrough was inevitable. Swaby’s goal initiated celebrations on the field. As the match entered injury time, Jamaica was awarded a penalty for a handball, potentially cementing their win. However, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) overturned the decision, inviting a late push from Panama. Despite the pressure, Jamaica held on, clinching a remarkable victory.
Now, Jamaica’s women’s national football team heads to the last group stage match against Brazil. The team welcomes back their star striker, Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw. Shaw had to sit out one match due to a red card against France.