In the recently concluded 2024 CONCACAF Girls’ U-15 Championship held in Aruba, Team Aruba secured the League C title, leaving Saint Lucia’s National Under-15 Girls team narrowly missing the opportunity to top their group.
Despite a strong start with Amaya Emmanuel’s goal, Saint Lucia couldn’t maintain their lead. Aruba came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory on Sunday. Adannayah Breinburg’s stunning long-range strike equalized for Aruba in the 27th minute.
The match remained tense, but in the latter session, Zyana Rogers scored in the 70+6 minutes of added time, clinching the championship title for Aruba. A defensive lapse allowed Zyana to capitalize on a loose ball inside the area.
The young striker from Soufriere has been prolific in the offense, and has done well for her community and Saint Lucia over the past two years. She has also represented the country in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Girls’ Under-14 Challenge Series.
In the third-place playoffs, Guadeloupe edged past the Turks and Caicos 7-6 in a penalty shootout, securing the bronze medal. Guadeloupe was also recognized with the Fair Play Award for their sportsmanship during the week-long tournament.
Amaya Emmanuel, the star player for Team Saint Lucia, scored a total of 8 goals, including a hat trick. Her outstanding performance has been a source of pride for her community and Saint Lucia. Additionally, the 2024 CONCACAF Girls’ U-15 Championship saw the United States win League A with a 3-0 victory over Mexico, while Honduras secured League B by defeating the Dominican Republic 1-0.