For the first time in CONCACAF Gold Cup history, matches were scheduled outside of North America with Costa Rica and Jamaica hosting group stages matches in this year’s tournament. In the Group B openers, Costa Rica and Haiti emerged victorious to move to the top of the group standings to the delight of the home fans in San Jose, Costa Rica.
Los Ticos scored early and often in the first half, with left back Bryan Oviedo opening the scoring in the 7th minute. The longtime Everton and current Sunderland defender finished from close range following a nice give-and-go move and Nicaraguan keeper Justo Lorente (2 saves) was unable to keep out despite getting a large piece of the ball.