World Cup: Costa Rica and Spain settle for draw, 1-1
Costa Rica midfielder Raquel Rodriguez Cedeno, right, celebrates with forward Carolina Venegas (9) after scoring on Spain during the first half of the teams’ Women’s World Cup opener on Tuesday.
Raquel Rodriguez Cedeno’s first-half goal gave Costa Rica a 1-1 draw against Spain at Montreal on Tuesday in the Women’s World Cup debut for both countries.
Rodriguez scored in the 14th minute off a centering pass from Katherine Alvarado, one minute after Vicky Losada put Spain ahead.
Spain controlled the possession for much of the second half, with Jennifer Hermoso and Sonia Bermudez narrowly missing chances soon after halftime.
Losada had another late opportunity, but Costa Rica goalkeeper Dinnia Diaz saved a shot headed to the top left part of the goal.
Costa Rica finished second in last year’s CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup, losing to the U.S. 6-0 in the final. It plays South Korea on Saturday, when Spain meets South American champion Brazil.
