Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz got their Cup of Nations tournament off to a losing start after going down 0-3 to Spain in their opener inside the Central Coast Stadium in Australia on Thursday.
Matie Oroz in the 18th minute and Esther Gonzalez in the 45th + 2 minutes, ensured the World number 7th-ranked Spaniards take a well-deserved lead into the half time break, before Fiamma Benitez in the 78th minute sealed the comfortable victory.
The Europeans dominated with 74 percent possession of the ball and the slick, highly technical side produced 18 shots, five of which were on target.
On the other hand, the Reggae Girlz saw just 26 percent possession with two shots, one of which was on target.
The loss leaves Jamaica third in the four-team competition just above Czech Republic who were blanked 4-0 by hosts, Australia.
Spain are second on goal difference.
The Reggae Girlz will oppose Czech Republic on Saturday, while Spain and Australia lock horns later in the day.
The four teams are using the competition in preparation for this summer’s World Cup which will be hosted jointly by Australia and New Zealand.
Australia will compete in Group B at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 alongside Republic of Ireland, Nigeria, and Canada, while Spain will contest Group C alongside Costa Rica, Zambia, and Japan.
Meanwhile, Jamaica will play in Group F alongside France, Brazil, and Group C play-off winner being contested in February also, while Czech Republic has not qualified for the tournament.
