GUATEMALA CITY — Canada scored three times in the first half and held on to beat Guatemala 3-2 on Friday in the first leg of their Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal at Estadio Manuel Felipe Carrera.
Tani Oluwaseyi opened the scoring in the 18th minute, finishing a pass from Jonathan David. Liam Millar made it 2-0 in the 28th minute, and David scored in first-half stoppage time, at 45+2, off a pass from Tajon Buchanan. Canada led 3-0 at halftime.
Guatemala's Oscar Santis scored on a header in the 54th minute, assisted by Matthew Evans. Canada head coach Jesse Marsch was sent off in the second half. Guatemala's second goal was an own goal by Canada defender Luc De Fougerolles at 90+4.
Canada outshot Guatemala 17-7, with eight shots on target to Guatemala's four, and held 64 per cent of the possession. Corners were 4-3 for Canada. Nicholas Hagen made five saves for Guatemala and Maxime Crepeau made three for Canada.
Alphonso Davies started for Canada and was substituted during the match. His replacement, Ralph Priso, was himself substituted in the 63rd minute. Niko Sigur and Richie Laryea were shown yellow cards for Canada. Jose Rosales, Rodrigo Saravia and Matthew Evans were booked for Guatemala.
The second leg is Monday at BMO Field in Toronto, with kickoff at 6:30 p.m. ABT. The winner of the series advances to the Nations League semifinals.