The 2025 Concacaf Caribbean Cup Final kicked off in the Dominican Republic, with Jamaica's Mount Pleasant FA securing a narrow 1-0 first-leg advantage over Universidad O&M FC, a match that featured Bermudian representation among the officials.
The decisive moment came early in the match at Estadio Cibao FC in Santiago de los Caballeros. Kimoni Bailey put Mount Pleasant into the lead in the 8th minute. The goal came from a corner kick opportunity delivered by Gadail Irving, with Bailey striking from the center of the box to capitalize on the delivery.
Adding a local dimension to the continental final, Bermuda's FIFA list Assistant Referee Clinton Hayward was on duty during the First Leg of the Final. Hayward is a regular official at high-level Concacaf matches, having previously officiated in the tournament's Group Stage.
The early breakthrough allowed Mount Pleasant to settle into the game, although the Dominican Republic club's goalkeeper, Iraitz Gelbentzu, made several key saves to keep Universidad O&M FC in contention, notably denying Lamar Walker in the 37th minute. Goalkeeper Tafari Chambers delivered a composed performance for Mount Pleasant, recording a save en route to a clean sheet.
Mount Pleasant FA will now look to defend their slim lead when the sides meet for the Second Leg, scheduled for next Tuesday at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica.
|
