Costa Rica downs Haiti 2-0 in Olympic qualifying tournament

Posted January 31, 2020 6:00 am

The Associated Press

Costa Rica forward Raquel Rodriguez (11) falls while chasing the ball as she is pushed from behind by Haiti forward Nerilia Mondesir (10) during the first half of a CONCACAF women's Olympic qualifying soccer match Friday, Jan. 31, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke) The Associated Press

HOUSTON (AP) - Raquel Rodriguez scored twice and Costa Rica defeated Haiti 2-0 in group play Friday at the CONCACAF Women's Olympic Qualifying tournament.

Rodriguez, who was traded in the offseason to the Portland Thorns of the National Women's Soccer League, scored on a header in the 57th minute after a scoreless first half. She added her second in the 66th.

Costa Rica opened the tournament on Tuesday with a 6-1 victory over Panama. The two wins put Las Ticas in good position for a berth in the semifinals.

Haiti fell 4-0 to the World Cup-winning U.S. national team in its group opener, but goalkeeper Kerly Theus was impressive with six saves against the Americans.

The United States and Panama meet in the later group match Friday at BBVA Compass Stadium.

The eight teams in the tournament are playing in two groups, with the top finishers advancing to the semifinals in Carson, California, on Feb. 7.

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Costa Rica goalkeeper Maria Bermudez (1) catches a Haiti shot between Costa Rica forward Maria Salas (17) and midfielder Katherine Alvarado (16) during the first half of a CONCACAF women's Olympic qualifying soccer match Friday, Jan. 31, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke) The Associated Press

Haiti forward Roseline Eloissaint (11) goes for the ball in front of Costa Rica defender Lixy Rodriguez (12)during the first half of a CONCACAF women's Olympic qualifying soccer match Friday, Jan. 31, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke) The Associated Press

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