Bermuda Earn CAC Games Spot Despite Bronze Medal Heartbreak
IslandStats.com
Bermuda's Women's National Field Hockey team narrowly went down in the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games after a hard-fought battle against Puerto Rico in the Bronze Medal match. With qualification on the line as the tournament drew to a close, Puerto Rico emerged with a slender 1-0 victory. However, as Mexico had prequalified and won the tournament, Dominican Republic are hosting and automatically gets a spot, Bermuda after finishing fourth have qualified for the CAC Games 2026 along with Venezuela, and Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico 1 Bermuda 0
Puerto Rico Starting Line-Up: - Anyia Woods, Sophia Prianti, Lyneishka Leon, Maria Pianetti, Alexis Morales, Antonina Aponte, Sheila Vazquez, Carina Ramirez, Nadia Briddell, Zoe Norton, Abigail Johnson - Substitutes: - Tabatha Aponte, Andrielys Lopez, Tyra Cream, Nilvia Vazquez, Jade Salas - Bermuda Starting Line-Up: - Christina Stephens-Weser, Alyssa De Silva, Georgia Harris, Elizabeth Stewart, Grace Lightowler, Jessica Hollis, Chrysda Smith, Megan Troake, Abigail Brewer, Jennifer Chisnall, Elizabeth Davidson - Substitutes: - Mackenzie Heaney, Robin Stempel, Heather Sinclair, Cindi Davis, Amber McHugh, Zaynab Brown
Having witnessed Puerto Rico snatch a dramatic last-minute winner in their previous encounter during the group stages, Bermuda were determined to avoid a repeat of that late heartbreak. However, despite a resolute defensive performance for much of the game, the solitary goal proved decisive.
The first half of the contest remained scoreless, with both teams battling fiercely for control and creating limited clear-cut opportunities. Bermuda's defence stood firm, denying Puerto Rico's attacking advances.
However, the crucial breakthrough came just two minutes after the restart. In the 32nd minute, Puerto Rico's Alexis Morales found the back of the net from a well-executed Penalty Corner. This single goal ultimately proved to be the difference between the two sides.
Despite their best efforts in the remaining time, Bermuda were unable to breach the Puerto Rican defence and find an equaliser. The final whistle brought disappointment for the Bermudian players and staff, as they watched Puerto Rico celebrate securing their place in the CAC Games.
While the loss is undoubtedly a setback, the Bermuda Women's National Team will take pride in their overall performance throughout the qualifying tournament. Their journey showcased their commitment and competitiveness, and they will look to build on this experience as they continue to develop the sport on the island. For Puerto Rico, the narrow victory sparked celebrations as they secured their coveted spot in the Central American and Caribbean Games.
