The action at the ERGO Junior World Cup in Mönchengladbach kicked off this morning with the encounter between Argentina and Canada. Argentina, one of the favored candidates for the title, defeated their fellow Pan American opponents 4-0 for a comfortable lead in Pool B.
Argentina imposed themselves early, making good use of a penalty corner as Agustina Habif at the left post slapped a rebound into the net to lay the foundation for the Leoncitas’ victory. Roberta Werthein went on to secure the lead, doubling the lead with a soft touch on a high ball into the circle in the 15th minute, and piling on another just as the first half ended.
In the second half, Canada had a greater share in play than in the first, but struggled to create danger. At the other end, Lauren Logush in the Canadian goal made a few great saves to contain the scoreline. The Canadians couldn’t avoid a fourth goal however when Agustina Albertario batted a high ball into the circle into the back of the net with eight minutes on the clock.
The match ended with a well deserved win for the Leoncitas, despite a good performance from Canada. Argentina leave no doubt that they are a contender for the top in this tournament.
Voices after the match:
Santiago Capurro, Coach Argentina: “In the first World Cup match, a win was very important. The girls seemed pretty nervous, but all in all, they did a good job.”
Ian Rutledge, Coach Canada: “Aside from the result, the performance was solid. We don’t want to focus too much on the result, it was a nervous start, but I think the performance was good. The girls worked honestly, and their work was the most impressive aspect of the girls today and I think it will be better tomorrow. Germany always has good tournaments and it’s great to be here.”
Canada plays China next July 28 at 1:30 am PST.
