Above: Martinique celebrating the victory
By the Caribbean Journal staff
It took until extra time, but Martinique sent a strong message to the football world in the Gold Cup opener on Sunday.
Fabrice Reuperne’s lefty shot from just outside the box in stoppage time gave Martinique a stunning 1-0 victory over Canada.
Canadians Russell Teibert and Will Johnson received yellow cards in the match, as did Martinique’s Nicolas Zaire and Arnolin Gregory.
While Canada dominated possession (holding the ball for nearly 59 percent of the game), Martinique continued attacking when it got chances, with eight shots on goal to just three by Canada.
In total, Martinique outshot Canada, 27-8.
The 37-year-old Reuperne’s beautiful goal came just moments after a corner kick from the right side, giving Martinique the victory over Canada, which is ranked 88th in the world.
Martinique’s squad only competes in regional tournaments, as the island is a department of France. It is not a member of FIFA.