ISSUE CONCACAF.com
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JUN/JUL
2014
To what do you attribute this overall success? JEFFREY WEBB, CONCACAF President FIFA/Getty Images
CONCACAF’S SUCCESS IN THE WORLD CUP
“I believe it is a combination of different elements for each team. For one, the strong commitment from National Associations to player development is certainly showing with individual standouts on the field. I also believe that the fact that CONCACAF’s Gold Cup is
The Confederation placed three teams in the knockout stages of World Cup for the first time. Costa Rica advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time in history, and was the first CONCACAF team to reach that round since 2002. During the 2014 World Cup, which crowned Germany champion after a 1-0 victory over Argentina, the U.S. reached the round of 16 for the second consecutive tournament, and although Mexico didn’t make it to the quarterfinals after falling to the Netherlands, it reached the knockout stages for a sixth consecutive time. Even though Honduras didn’t advance past the group stage, this was its second straight World Cup appearance and third overall.
played every 2 years, instead of every 4 years has a positive impact on the level of competition. Teams have the opportunity to play highly competitive games more often allowing them to evaluate their player pool at that level. We have also witnessed outstanding preparations and coaching in our teams. Managers have successfully executed exceptional tactics. We have also seen their ability to motivate and
“ We have also witnessed outstanding preparations and coaching in our teams. Managers have successfully executed exceptional tactics.” -Jeffrey Webb, CONCACAF President
unite their respective squads. Taking pressure off the players is key and our managers have proven to be proficient in making sure that their players are in the right frame of mind to compete.”
CONCACAF’S SUCCESS IN THE WORLD CUP
CONCACAF’S SUCCESS IN THE WORLD CUP
GOALKEEPERS SHINE IN GLOBAL SPOTLIGHT
COSTA RICA.................................................................... Costa Rica’s historic run at the 2014 FIFA World Cup ended with its quarterfinal elimination at the hands of the Netherlands via penalty kicks. The Central American champion officially went undefeated with two wins and three
Amidst the myriad of storylines surrounding the 2014 FIFA World Cup, one of the loudest narratives coming out of Brazil was the near universal praise of CONCACAF goalkeepers. With three of four participating member associations advancing out of the group stage, CONCACAF teams experienced unprecedented success at the tournament. Much of that prosperity can be directly attributed to the outstanding play of goalkeepers Tim Howard, Guillermo Ochoa and Keylor Navas. Each put forth inspired performances to help lead their teams out of difficult groups.
draws in five games, making it the sixth time that a team from CONCACAF advanced past of the round of 16 in World Cup history (USA: 1930 - semifinals, 2002 - quarterfinals; Cuba: 1938 - quarterfinals; Mexico: 1970 & 1986 - quarterfinals)
HONDURAS.................................................................... Honduras completed its third World Cup appearance with a 3-0 loss to Switzerland, ending hopes of advancing past the group stage for the first time. Veteran Roger Espinoza preferred to look
Costa Rica’s
towards the future and how to best capitalize on a Brazil 2014 journey. “From this, you learn,” said the veteran midfielder. “There will be more World Cups. I hope to be in Russia 2018.”
KEYLOR NAVAS
The unforgettable exploits of Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas, made him perhaps the tournament’s biggest revelation. The Levante standout, who earned a recent transfer to European champion Real Madrid, played a featured role in his side’s first-place finish in the “Group of Champions.” The Central American champion progressed to the quarterfinals, before being outlasted by the Dutch on penalty kicks following a scoreless draw. Named man-of-the-match in three of the Ticos’ five encounters, Navas’ play has merited the respect of the global soccer community and has seen him recognized as a national hero.
MEXICO........................................................................... Mexico’s 2014 FIFA World Cup participation ended as the Netherlands struck for two goals in a furious late rally to post a 2-1 win in their round of 16 encounter. Though disappointed to be eliminated at the same stage six consecutive times, Mexico head coach Miguel Herrera made a point
Mexico’s
GUILLERMO OCHOA
Against Brazil, Ochoa was inspirational, making a series of saves – including arguably the tournament’s best on a 26th minute sprawling denial of a Neymar header – to secure a famous point for the Mexicans. While fans at home and abroad collectively cheered on their exceptional goalkeeper, the former Ajaccio man helped lead his side to their sixth straight appearance in the round of 16.
USA................................................................................... Falling to Belgium 2-1 in a riveting round of 16 clash, United States head coach Jurgen Klinsmann was full of praise after the World Cup game. While also making sure to compliment his team collectively, the 49-year-old had nothing but superlatives for goalkeeper Tim Howard, whose Man of the Match effort was one for the ages.
USA’s
TIM HOWARD
The World Cup has given Howard household name recognition, as well as praise from teammates, coaches and opponents alike. Head coach Jurgen Klinsmann described the 35-year-old as “phenomenal,” following his record breaking 15-save outing against Belgium in the round of 16. FIFA/Getty Images 2
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to proclaim pride for his players and their efforts. In the final analysis, Herrera maintained that the Tricolor participated in the World Cup with distinction, created memorable moments and should be collectively satisfied.
“I have to say that what Tim Howard did was phenomenal, outstanding and amazing,” said Klinsmann. “He kept us in the game. He had an absolutely amazing match and you have to give him all the plaudits.”
FIFA/Getty Images 3
CONCACAF FOCUSES ON REFORM DURING CONGRESS Bonaire Officially Welcomed as Full CONCACAF Member June 10 CONCACAF held its 29th Ordinary and 20th Extraordinary Congresses in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The meeting was attended by representatives of all 41 Member Associations. In his second full year as CONCACAF President, Webb chaired the Congress. FIFA President Joseph “Sepp” Blatter led the list of football executives in attendance that also included Asian Football Confederation President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa and AFC General Secretary Dato’ Alex Soosay.
HIGHLIGHTS Amendments made to the Confederation’s Statutes: • Approval of the Code of Ethics and the Code of Conduct. • The addition of a Female Member to the CONCACAF Executive Committee under Article 24. • The definition of the composition of the CONCACAF Disciplinary Committee to allow proper operation and the eventual implementation of a disciplinary code. • The formalization of the existing CONCACAF Audit and Compliance Committee, increasing governance and oversight of the Confederation. • The formalization of the existing Gold Cup Committee. • Stricter regulatory language in the Non-Discrimination and Stance against Racism. • The approval of an amendment to Article 26, Candidatures for the Office of the CONCACAF President.
“One Vision, One Future, One CONCACAF, is our focus today, but also, it must be our long-term commitment. We have rebuilt our foundation, now let us move forward to continue the good work.”
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The amendments were approved unanimously by the delegates. CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb emphasized that support by urging them to renew efforts in the areas of good governance, infrastructure development, integrity and financial transparency. • The Finance Committee presented its annual report, which reflected a significant growth in the governing body’s finances. • Investment Subcommittee recommendations were approved unanimously. The Investment Subcommittee also gave its recommendations for the 25 million dollars that the Confederation has earmarked for reserve. • Independent auditors BDO were also on hand to present the Congress with the 2012 and 2013 audits. • Another area of focus was integrity, as the newly created Sports Integrity Department delivered its first report to the membership. The report included results on investigated cases and the introduction of a whistleblower hotline, which will provide fans, players, coaches and executives with a mechanism to report possible irregularities in the game. • During the session, President Webb acknowledged El Salvador for its efforts in the fight against match fixing that resulted in a zero tolerance approach and sanctions against offending players. • Additional reports included those from the Audit and Compliance, Finance and Budget Committees.
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HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS WEBB PROVIDES ANTI-DISCRIMINATION UPDATE AT FIFA CONGRESS
COSTA RICA’S VALVERDE RECEIVES FIFA ORDER OF MERIT
June 11
June 11
Addressing an audience of over 1,200 delegates and guests at the 64th FIFA Congress in Sao Paulo, FIFA Vice President and CONCACAF President, Jeffrey Webb, provided an update on the plan crafted to support the world of football in the fight against racism and discrimination. “As per the mandate given at the FIFA Congress last year, the Task Force against Racism and Discrimination continued its work
with a second meeting in 2013,” said Webb. “Deliberations among discrimination experts, relevant institutions and opinion leaders took place to propose further recommendations to FIFA in order to strengthen its fight against discrimination, apply stricter sanctions and implement stronger prevention initiatives.” Since the 2013 FIFA Congress in Mauritius, an action plan has been designed. Furthermore, limited but adequate resources
have been made available to support the development and implementation of concrete initiatives and activities to achieve the Task Force’s goal. Surveys, training modules for football officers, campaigns and other activities are being developed by FIFA in order to better support our Member Associations and continue improving the ways of combatting discrimination in football.
“Deliberations among discrimination experts, relevant institutions and opinion leaders took place to propose further recommendations to FIFA in order to strengthen its fight against discrimination, apply stricter sanctions and implement stronger prevention initiatives.” - CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb
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Former Costa Rica national team player Maria Elena Valverde Coto was awarded the FIFA Order of Merit for her decades of service to the women’s game. The honor was presented by FIFA President Joseph Blatter and CONCACAF
President Jeffrey Webb during a ceremony at the Opening of the 64th FIFA Congress in São Paulo. Valverde, a true football pioneer, is best known for organizing the first women’s national team in Latin America and playing in
the first official women’s club match in Costa Rica on March 26, 1950. At 86-years-old, she continues to promote women’s football in Costa Rica.
WEBB PRESENTED A MESSAGE ON GLOBAL WATCH: SAY NO TO RACISM AND DISCRIMINATION IN ALL SPORT June 5 CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb, Chairman of the FIFA Anti-Racism and Discrimination Task Force, presented a message on the occasion of the launch of the Global Watch: Say No to Racism and Discrimination in all sport. The initiative, unveiled to international
media, is aimed at addressing the challenges arising from racism and discrimination in all sport globally. Political and social activist, Tokyo Sexwale is leading this important project, in a strategic partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the Doha Goals Forum Foundation.
Global Watch builds upon the hard work and long involvement of many organizations across the world that are taking a stand against racism and discrimination.
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ON THE FIELD
HEADLINE TITLE
GROUP STAGE SCHEDULE 2014-15 DATE WEEK 1 TUESDAY, AUG 5
8
8:00PM ET
Alpha United FC (GUY) vs. Club Deportivo Olimpia (HON)
8:00PM ET
Cruz Azul FC (MEX) vs. Liga Deportiva Alajuelense (CRC)
8:00PM ET
Impact de Montreal (CAN) vs. Club Deportivo FAS (SLV)
10:00PM ET
AD Isidro Metapán (SLV) vs. Club León (MEX) Club de Fútbol Pachuca (MEX) vs. Real Club Deportivo España (HON) Real Estelí Fútbol Club (NCA) vs. Deportivo Saprissa (CRC)
THURSDAY, AUG 7
10:00PM ET
Comunicaciones FC (GUA) vs. Puerto Rico Bayamón FC (PUR)
10:00PM ET
Tauro FC (PAN) vs. Waterhouse Football Club (JAM)
8:00PM ET
Alpha United FC (GUY) vs Portland Timbers (USA)
8:00PM ET
Club América (MEX) vs. Puerto Rico Bayamón FC (PUR)
10:00PM ET
Chorrillo FC (PAN) vs. Cruz Azul FC (MEX)
10:00PM ET
Real Estelí Fútbol Club (NCA) vs. Sporting Kansas City (USA)
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The quarterfinal, semifinal and final rounds are slated for early next year. More information on the CONCACAF Champions League, including team-by-team capsules and in-depth statistics and analysis, can be found at CONCACAF.com. The iPhone CONCACAF Champions League Mobile Application is already available for download on the iTunes store for free.
8:00PM ET
Cruz Azul FC (MEX) vs. Chorrillo FC (PAN)
10:00PM ET
Portland Timbers (USA) vs. Club Deportivo Olimpia (HON)
8:00PM ET 10:00PM ET
AD Isidro Metapán (SLV) vs. Belmopan Bandits Football (BLZ)
8:00PM ET
Sporting Kansas City (USA) vs. Real Estelí Fútbol Club (NCA)
10:00PM ET
Portland Timbers (USA) vs. Alpha United FC (GUY)
THURSDAY, SEPT 18 WEEK 5 TUESDAY, SEPT 23
WEDNESDAY, 8:00PM ET SEPT 24 8:00PM ET
8:00PM ET
New York Red Bulls (USA) vs. Club Deportivo FAS (SLV)
10:00PM ET
Comunicaciones FC (GUA) vs. Club América (MEX)
WEEK 6 TUESDAY, OCT 21
10:00PM ET
Deportivo Saprissa (CRC) vs. Real Estelí Fútbol Club (NCA) Club León (MEX) vs. Belmopan Bandits Football (BLZ)
THURSDAY, AUG 28
Waterhouse Football Club (JAM) vs. DC United (USA)
Club Social y Deportivo Municipal (GUA) vs. Real Club Deportivo España (HON) Sporting Kansas City (USA) vs. Deportivo Saprissa (CRC)
THURSDAY, SEPT 25
WEDNESDAY, 8:00PM ET AUG 27 10:00PM ET
8:00PM ET
10:00PM ET
Real Club Deportivo España (HON) vs. Club Social y Deportivo Municipal (GUA) Belmopan Bandits Football (BLZ) vs. AD Isidro Metapán (SLV)
WEEK 3 TUESDAY, AUG 26
TEAMS
Puerto Rico Bayamón FC (PUR) vs. Club América (MEX)
THURSDAY, AUG 21
10:00PM ET
TIME
WEDNESDAY, 8:00PM ET SEPT 17 8:00PM ET
DC United (USA) vs. Waterhouse FC (JAM)
10:00PM ET DC United, New York Red Bulls, Portland Timbers, and Sporting Kansas City and Liga MX entrant Club America – entering play on weeks 2 and 3, scheduled from August 19-21 and August 26-28, respectively. September will feature two more rounds of play, before the group phase wraps up with a final set of encounters in October, including a number of marquee match ups. The top club from each of the eight threeteam groups advances to the knockout round.
DATE WEEK 4 TUESDAY, SEPT 16
WEDNESDAY, 8:00PM ET AUG 20 10:00PM ET
July 3 CONCACAF unveiled the group phase schedule for the 2014/15 edition of the CONCACAF Champions League, the region’s premier competition for clubs. Twenty-four teams are participating in this season’s Champions League, marking the seventh edition in which a Confederationwide group phase has been disputed before the knockout rounds. Sixteen clubs debuted in the tournament’s first week, with the other eight – including Major League Soccer sides
TEAMS
WEDNESDAY, 8:00PM ET AUG 6 10:00PM ET
WEEK 2 TUESDAY, AUG 19
CONCACAF SETS CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SCHEDULE FOR 2014/15 SEASON GROUP PHASE
TIME
Club Deportivo FAS (SLV) vs. Impact de Montreal (CAN)
Impact de Montreal (CAN) vs. New York Red Bulls (USA)
Club de Fútbol Pachuca (MEX) vs. Club Social y Deportivo Municipal (GUA) DC United (USA) vs. Tauro FC (PAN)
10:00PM ET
Club Deportivo FAS (SLV) vs. New York Red Bulls (USA)
10:00PM ET
Belmopan Bandits Football (BLZ) vs. Club León (MEX)
8:00PM ET
Puerto Rico Bayamón FC (PUR) vs. Comunicaciones FC (GUA)
10:00PM ET
Chorrillo FC (PAN) vs. Liga Deportiva Alajuelense (CRC)
8:00PM ET
Tauro FC (PAN) vs. DC United (USA)
8:00PM ET
Club América (MEX) vs. Comunicaciones FC (GUA)
10:00PM ET
Liga Deportiva Alajuelense (CRC) vs. Cruz Azul FC (MEX)
10:00PM ET
Club Deportivo Olimpia (HON) vs. Portland Timbers (USA)
8:00PM ET
Club Social y Deportivo Municipal (GUA) vs. Club de Fútbol Pachuca (MEX) Waterhouse Football Club (JAM) vs. Tauro FC (PAN)
WEDNESDAY, 8:00PM ET OCT 22 10:00PM ET
10:00PM ET
Liga Deportiva Alajuelense (CRC) vs. Chorrillo FC (PAN)
10:00PM ET
Club Deportivo Olimpia (HON) vs. Alpha United FC (GUY)
THURSDAY, OCT 23
New York Red Bulls (USA) vs. Impact de Montreal (CAN)
8:00PM ET
Real Club Deportivo España (HON) vs. Club de Fútbol Pachuca (MEX) Club León (MEX) vs. AD Isidro Metapán (SLV)
10:00PM ET
Deportivo Saprissa (CRC) vs. Sporting Kansas City (USA)
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ON THE FIELD
ON THE FIELD FIFA U-20
WOMEN’S WORLD CUP
CONCACAF ANNOUNCES GROUPS AND REVEALS LOGO FOR INAUGURAL GIRLS’ UNDER-15 CHAMPIONSHIP June 2 CONCACAF announced the competitors, unveiled the logo and released the match schedule of the inaugural CONCACAF Girls’ Under-15 Championship, to be held in the Cayman Islands from August 6-17, 2014. At the Marriott Beach Resort Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman, CONCACAF revealed the participating 16 national teams,
CANADA 2014
before presenting the official logo along with Minister of Sports the Honourable Osbourne Bodden and Chairwoman of the Local Organizing Committee Sharon Roulstone. The logo design reflects two icons from the host’s national identity: the Cayman Green Parrot – the national bird -- and the thatch palm.
Canada
FACTS AND FIGURES • The sixteen teams were placed into four groups of four and participate in round-robin play over the competition’s first six match days. The top two teams from each group advance to the quarterfinals, which will take place on August 13. The semifinals will be played two days later, with the winners competing in the Final and the losers contesting the match for third place on Sunday, August 17.
• Tournament matches will be held at four venues: three in Grand Cayman (Truman Bodden Sports Complex, T.E McField Sports Complex, Ed Bush Sports Complex). Additionally, for the first time in CONCACAF competition, group matches will be contested in Cayman Brac, one of the three islands that make up the Cayman Islands.
• In 2013, Honduras captured the first-ever CONCACAF Boys’ Under-15 Championship, also played in the Cayman Islands. That tournament and the girls’ version are key components of CONCACAF’s commitment to development that is aimed at providing competition for youth players aged 13-15.
CAYMAN ISLANDS
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 6
CURACAO
THURSDAY AUGUST 7 BAHAMAS
B. VIRGIN ISLANDS
FRIDAY AUGUST 8
GROUP B
HONDURAS
BARBADOS
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
BERMUDA
GROUP C
JAMAICA
ANGUILLA
COSTA RICA
CUBA
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SUNDAY AUGUST 10 MONDAY AUGUST 11
HONDURAS VS BERMUDA
19:30
CAYMAN ISLANDS VS B. VIRGIN ISLANDS
17:30
COSTA RICA VS ANGUILLA
19:30
JAMAICA VS BELIZE
17:30
BARBADOS VS HONDURAS
19:30
CAYMAN ISLANDS VS BAHAMAS
17:30
BELIZE VS COSTA RICA
19:30
ANGUILLA VS JAMAICA
17:30
HONDURAS VS TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
19:30
CAYMAN ISLANDS VS CURACAO
17:30
ANGUILLA VS BELIZE
19:30
JAMAICA VS COSTA RICA
TRUMAN BODDEN SPORTS COMPLEX T.E. MCFIELD SPORTS CENTRE TRUMAN BODDEN SPORTS COMPLEX T.E. MCFIELD SPORTS CENTRE TRUMAN BODDEN SPORTS COMPLEX T.E. MCFIELD SPORTS CENTRE
BAHAMAS VS CURACAO TRINIDAD & TOBAGO VS BARBADOS HAITI VS CUBA CANADA VS PUERTO RICO BERMUDA VS TRINIDAD & TOBAGO B. VIRGIN ISLANDS VS CURACAO PUERTO RICO VS HAITI CUBA VS CANADA BAHAMAS VS B. VIRGIN ISLANDS BERMUDA VS BARBADOS CUBA VS PUERTO RICO CANADA VS HAITI
ED BUSH SPORTS COMPLEX
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 13
HAITI
PUERTO RICO
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FRIDAY AUGUST 15 SUNDAY AUGUST 17
17:30
QF1: B1 VS A2
19:30
QF3: A1 VS B2
17:30
WINNER QF1 VS WINNER QF2
19:30
WINNER QF3 VS WINNER QF4
17:30
LOSER SF1 VS LOSER SF2
19:30
WINNER SF2 VS. WINNER SF1
TRUMAN BODDEN SPORTS COMPLEX TRUMAN BODDEN SPORTS COMPLEX T.E. MCFIELD SPORTS CENTRE
QF2: D1 VS C2 QF4: C1 VS D2
WEDNESDAY, AUG 6
CAYMAN BRAC SPORTS FIELD ED BUSH SPORTS COMPLEX
FRIDAY, AUG 8
CAYMAN BRAC SPORTS FIELD ED BUSH SPORTS COMPLEX
SATURDAY, AUG 9
CAYMAN BRAC SPORTS FIELD
BELIZE
GROUP D
CANADA
SATURDAY AUGUST 9
17:30
DATE
Mexico LOCAL TIME
GROUP STAGE TUESDAY, 17:00 AUG 5 17:00
GAME CALENDAR (all times are local and subject to change): GROUP A
Costa Rica
T.E. MCFIELD SPORTS CENTRE
TUESDAY, AUG 12
WEDNESDAY, AUG 13
LOCATION
TEAMS
Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
Germany vs. USA
National Soccer Stadium, Toronto
Finland vs. Korea DPR
20:00
Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
China PR vs. Brazil
20:00
National Soccer Stadium, Toronto
Canada vs. Ghana
17:00
Moncton Stadium, Moncton
England vs. Korea Republic
17:00
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
France vs. Costa Rica
20:00
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
New Zealand vs. Paraguay
20:00
Moncton Stadium, Moncton
Mexico vs. Nigeria
17:00
National Soccer Stadium, Toronto
Ghana vs. Korea DPR
17:00
Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
Germany vs. China PR
20:00
Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
USA vs. Brazil
20:00
National Soccer Stadium, Toronto
Canada vs. Finland
14:00
Moncton Stadium, Moncton
England vs. Mexico
17:00
Moncton Stadium, Moncton
Korea Republic vs. Nigeria
17:00
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
New Zealand vs. France
20:00
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
Paraguay vs. Costa Rica
16:00
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
Brazil vs. Germany
17:00
Moncton Stadium, Moncton
USA vs. China PR
19:00
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
Korea DPR vs. Canada
20:00
Moncton Stadium, Moncton
Ghana vs. Finland
15:00
Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
Paraguay vs. France
17:00
National Soccer Stadium, Toronto
Costa Rica vs. New Zealand
18:00
Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
Nigeria vs. England
20:00
National Soccer Stadium, Toronto
Korea Republic vs. Mexico
USA DATE
LOCAL TIME
QUARTERFINALS SATURDAY, 17:00 AUG 16 18:00 SUNDAY, 17:00 AUG 17 19:00 SEMIFINALS WEDNESDAY, 17:00 AUG 20 19:00 THIRD PLACE SUNDAY 16:00 AUG 24 FINAL SUNDAY AUG 24
GROUP A Canada Ghana Finland Korea DPR
19:00
LOCATION
TEAMS
National Soccer Stadium, Toronto
1A vs. 2B
Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
1B vs. 2A
Moncton Stadium, Moncton
1C vs. 2D
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
1D vs. 2C
Moncton Stadium, Moncton
W25 vs. W27
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
W26 vs. W28
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
L29 vs. L30
Olympic Stadium, Montreal
W29 vs. W30
GROUP B Germany USA China PR Brazil
GROUP C England Korea Republic Mexico Nigeria
GROUP D New Zealand Paraguay France Costa Rica
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ON THE FIELD BBVA Compass Stadium, Houston, TX
Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, CA
SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED FOR CENTRAL AMERICAN CUP 2014 TO BE PLAYED IN THE U.S. THIS SEPTEMBER July 22 UNCAF announced the groups, schedule and ticket information for the Central American Cup 2014 USA, to be played September 3-13 in the United States. The Central American Cup, which will be played on U.S. soil for the first time in its 13 editions, will provide berths to the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup and the 2016 Centennial Cup America. The two-group, seven-team tournament will kick off Sept. 3 at RFK Stadium in Washington D.C. with a tripleheader involving both groups, featuring 2014 FIFA World Cup quarterfinalist Costa Rica taking on Nicaragua, Honduras facing Belize, and closing out with El Salvador - Guatemala. The Central American Cup 2014 USA then moves on to Dallas’ Cotton Bowl on September 7 and Houston’s BBVA Compass Stadium on September 10. The championship game, as well as the third- and fifth-place matches, will be played on Saturday, September 13, at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Cotton Bowl, Dallas, TX
RFK Stadium, Washington D.C.
JAMAICA SET TO HOST CONCACAF UNDER-20 CHAMPIONSHIPS IN JANUARY July 23
FACTS AND FIGURES
Jamaica will host the upcoming CONCACAF Under-20 Championship, scheduled for January 2015. The cities of Kingston and Montego Bay will be the venues for the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship Jamaica 2015, which kicks off on January 9. The National Stadium in Kingston and the Montego Bay Sports Complex will each play host to group phase matches, with the final round to be played in Montego Bay on January 24. This year, a new format favoring development and competition will be introduced to the Under-20 Championship. The twelve qualifying teams will be divided
• Location: Kingston and Montego Bay, Jamaica
into two groups of six, to play a round-robin format on the first five match days. This new tournament structure backs enhanced competition in determining the Confederation’s prized World Cup bids. Additionally, development is emphasized by assuring all twelve competing teams multiple high-level, competitive matches. During the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship Jamaica 2015, all eleven match days will feature tripleheader action, with a record 33 total games set to be contested among the finalists. Information on the draw for the tournament will be announced in coming weeks.
FACTS AND FIGURES • The Central American Cup will decide the four automatic UNCAF berths for the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup. The fifth-place finisher will earn the right to participate in a two-leg playoff against the fifth-place team from the 2014 Caribbean Football Union Caribbean Cup for an additional Gold Cup berth. • The champion of the Central American Cup 2014 USA will earn a direct ticket to the recently-announced Centennial Cup America 2016, also to be played in the United States. • Costa Rica is the current Central American Cup champion, and has lifted the trophy a record seven times. Honduras
is next with three titles, while Guatemala and Panama have won one apiece. Belize, El Salvador and Nicaragua complete the field of seven Central American nations. • The Central American Cup has been contested 12 previous times, starting in 1991. Costa Rica and Honduras have hosted it three times each, while it has been played in El Salvador, Guatemala and Panama twice. • The event’s Organizing Committee is headed by CONCACAF and Soccer United Marketing. Sponsorship rights are being managed jointly by Imagina USA and Traffic USA.
2014 CENTRAL AMERICAN CUP GROUPS - teams listed in alphabetical order GROUP A
COSTA RICA
NICARAGUA
PANAMÁ
GROUP B
BELIZE
EL SALVADOR
GUATEMALA
HONDURAS
2014 CENTRAL AMERICAN CUP SCHEDULE - All times are Eastern WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 3, 2014 – RFK Stadium, Washington D.C. WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 10, 2014 – BBVA Compass Stadium, Houston, TX 5:00pm Costa Rica vs. Nicaragua 6:00pm Panama vs. Nicaragua 7:00pm Honduras vs. Belize 8:00pm El Salvador vs. Belize 9:00pm El Salvador vs. Guatemala 10:00pm Honduras vs. Guatemala SUNDAY, SEPT. 7, 2014 – Cotton Bowl, Dallas, TX 5:00pm Costa Rica vs. Panama 7:00pm Guatemala vs. Belize 9:00pm Honduras vs. El Salvador
SATURDAY, SEPT.13, 2014 – Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, CA 4:00pm Third Place Group A vs. Third Place Group B 7:00pm Second Place Group A vs. Second Place Group B 10:00pm First Place Group A vs. First Place Group B
Tickets to all matches are on sale to the general public on www.concacaf.com/tickets and at all stadium box offices.
HOST CITIES AND QUALIFICATION FORMAT ANNOUNCED FOR CONCACAF WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP 2014 July 24 The 2014 CONCACAF Women’s Championship will be played in four host cities in the United States: Chicago, Kansas City, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. The CONCACAF Women’s Championship will qualify three teams directly to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015, with a fourth earning the right to face a South American country in a playoff.
• Dates: January 9 – January 24, 2015 • Stadiums: National Stadium (Kingston) and Montego Bay Sports Complex • Participating Teams: 12 • Caribbean Football Union: 5 Teams • North America: 3 Teams • Central American Football Union: 4 Teams • Number of teams qualifying to the FIFA World Cup: 4 • Format: The twelve (12) teams shall be divided into a group stage consisting of two (2) groups (A, B) of six (6) teams each. The group winners qualify automatically for the FIFA U-20 World Cup New Zealand 2015. The second- and third-place teams from each group are re-seeded by group stage results, with the top team of the four facing the fourth-best team, and the second-best finisher facing the third-best. The winner of each of those two matches also advances to the FIFA U-20 World Cup New Zealand 2015.
FACTS AND FIGURES • Date: October 15-26 • The tournament features eight countries divided into two groups of four, with the top two finishers in each group after round-robin play advancing to the semifinals. • As host of the Women’s World Cup, Canada has already secured its place in next year’s tournament. • The 2014 CONCACAF Women’s Championship will feature the USA, Mexico, Costa Rica (Central American Group II winner), Guatemala (Central American Group I winner), and the four semifinalists in the final round of the CFU Women’s Caribbean Cup, which will take place August 19-26, 2014, in Trinidad & Tobago.
• All eight countries participating in the Championship will play one match in each of the three first-round venues. Sporting Park in Kansas City, Kansas, Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois, and RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C., will each host a pair of doubleheaders on consecutive match days, one each for Groups A and B. • FOX is the official English language broadcaster in the U.S. • The final tournament schedule and kick-off times will be set at the Final Draw on September 5 in Miami. Ticket information will be made available in the near future. • The U.S. last hosted the CONCACAF Women’s Championship in 2006, and split hosting responsibilities with Canada in 2002, when games were played in Seattle and Vancouver, B.C.
“ We are honored to serve as the local organizing committee for this tournament as we continue to support and grow women’s soccer in this region on a large scale.” - U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati HONDURAS TO HOST CONCACAF UNDER-17 CHAMPIONSHIP IN 2015 July 29 Honduras will host next year’s CONCACAF Under-17 Championship. The tournament will be played from February 27 - March 14, 2014 in a pai of San Pedro Sula venues: the Estadio Olimpico Metroploitano and the Estadio Francisco Morazan.
The tournament will be played from February 27 - March 14, 2014 in a pair of San Pedro Sula venues: the Estadio Olimpico Metroploitano and the Estadio Francisco Morazan. Honduras will welcome the region’s top youth teams back to Central America, following a successful 2013 Under-17
Championship disputed in Panama. The tournament will crown the Confederation champion at this age level, and qualify four teams to the FIFA U-17 World Cup Chile 2015.
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INTEGRITY AND DIVERSITY
FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT
SINGLE POINT OF CONTACTS (SPOC) APPOINTMENT PROCESS FOR INTEGRITY AND DIVERSITY PROGRAMS IN ALL MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS June 5 CONCACAF began the process of appointments for Single Point of Contacts (SPOC) in every Member Association. These individuals will assist the Confederation in extending the efficient and effective regional integrity network aimed at protecting the game of football by combatting matchmanipulation, racism and discrimination. As it pertains to the fight against matchmanipulation, the SPOCs will also be the contact persons in establishing the CONCACAF Integrity program at the Member Association level. The current CONCACAF Integrity program contains different education and prevention measures. The presence of one dedicated contact in each country will facilitate the fast and smooth exchange of information across the region. The creation of such a position in every
FIFA RAP BEACH SOCCER/FUTSAL REFEREE INSTRUCTORS COURSE CONCLUDES IN COSTA RICA July 10
Member Association is also recommended by FIFA. SPOC will receive special tailored training in fact finding by FIFA and INTERPOL to develop the knowledge and skills to conduct an effective enquiry and establish the facts relating to a report or suspicion of match manipulation as well as presenting the findings for the purposes of disciplinary proceedings. As a component of CONCACAF’s efforts to broaden its Embrace Diversity campaign, these qualified individuals will help coordinate the monitoring and elimination of any racist
or discriminatory behavior during matches. In coordination with CONCACAF, they will also have the responsibility of establishing diversity initiatives, education and prevention programs to combat racism and discrimination within their respective Member Association. As an initial step, CONCACAF will provide training to all appointed SPOCs, who will participate in a comprehensive workshop that will thoroughly examine best practices for dealing with incidents of racism or other acts of discrimination during high-risk matches.
CAMPAIGN AGAINST MATCH-FIXING CONTINUES July 9 CONCACAF’s commitment in the battle against match-fixing took another important step forward in Costa Rica. The CONCACAF Integrity Department sent out its first Integrity Officer to educate the heads of refereeing departments from 11 CONCACAF-affiliated member associations about the threats of match-fixing. At a three-day FIFA/CONCACAF/UNCAF Referee Assistance Program workshop (June 17-19) that focused on the advancement of match officiating, best practices were shared and discussions stimulated on topics such as physical fitness, nutrition, management and integrity. A component of maintaining trust in the game is recognizing and preventing matchfixing. Due to the crucial role of referees in achieving that objective, seminar participants
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were provided with the educational tools necessary for them to engage appropriately in that process. CONCACAF Integrity Officers are being dispatched across the region as part of the CONCACAF Integrity Action Plan to support member associations in the fight against match-fixing by conducting presentations to target groups of the match-fixers: players, referees, coaches and club managers. As part of the CONCACAF Integrity Initiative, all participants in an upcoming tournaments and friendly matches will be required to sign an integrity declaration, affirming that they will refrain from any conduct that could damage the integrity of a game, and racist or discriminatory behavior. The ultimate aim is to protect football’s participants from organized criminals, who
are determined to manipulate results. CONCACAF’s 25 Interpol-certified trainers are qualified to deliver ample instructive information, which will enable members of the football family to recognize, resist and report match-fixing attempts before they lead to actual manipulation.
“ CONCACAF Integrity Officers are being dispatched across the region as part of the CONCACAF Integrity Action Plan to support member associations in the fight against match-fixing.”
A six-day FIFA Refereeing Assistance Program (RAP) Futuro III course for beach soccer and futsal referee instructors concluded in Costa Rica. More than 20 participants from 17 CONCACAF-affiliated member associations attended the conference (July 3-8), which focused on the continued development of match officiating in both versions of the sport. Since 2008, RAP has led the way in improving the standard of refereeing through education and support. With CONCACAF’s clear commitment to elevating beach soccer and futsal in the region, the referee instructors received high-quality training from
FIFA instructor Jesus Rubio. Through multiple presentations, practical examples and engaging teaching techniques, the instructors were equipped with the tools to disseminate suitably what they absorbed upon their return home. Representatives from the Bahamas, Belize,
Canada, Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Nicaragua, Panama, Trinidad & Tobago and United States were in attendance.
TCIFA HOSTS GIRLS’ COACHING COURSE, FESTIVAL July 22 Fulfilling another core objective of its development plan, CONCACAF launched the first-ever Girls’ Grassroots Course and Festival at the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) National Academy Field. The three-day event opened with a course for 18 coach-educators that focused on techniques for those instructing girls aged
6-12. It was followed by a football festival with the enthusiastic participation of 65 local girls. In an earlier accomplishment during a year of firsts for women’s football in Turks and Caicos, the TCIFA also hosted a first-round group in the CFU Women’s Caribbean Cup in May.
WEBB URGES JFF OFFICIALS TO FOCUS ON DEVELOPMENT July 22 President Jeffrey Webb urged officials and coaches to maintain a focus on player development, when he addressed the opening session of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) Congress in Montego Bay. Webb told the gathering of JFF officials, local coaches and staff members that youth player development in particular should spearhead its strategic plans for the future. “The game is about the players, so we have to do all we can to create the best opportunities for them,” he expressed. “We must embrace the ever-changing world
of technology, create the infrastructure that makes the game accessible and improve coaching standards because without qualified coaches our players will never progress.” Captain Horace Burrell thanked President Webb for his continued support and assured his federation’s commitment to implementing best practices in all areas. “Jamaica has been a leader in regional football and we want to build on that legacy,” Burrell said. “With CONCACAF’s continued support Jamaican football and, by extension, Caribbean football will prosper.”
During the JFF Congress, Capt. Burrell was reelected unopposed as President for a third consecutive term.
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OTHER NEWS EVENTS MARK ONE-YEAR WOMEN’S WORLD CUP COUNTDOWN June 6 Just one year from the opening match of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™, fans, soccer clubs and media were invited to take part in One Year To A Greater Goal™ countdown events organized across the nation. Celebrations took place in five Official
Host Cities: Edmonton, Montreal, Ottawa, Vancouver and Winnipeg. At each event, a special FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™ One Year To A Greater Goal™ Countdown Clock was unveiled.
GUATEMALA’S MAZARIEGOS WINS CONCACAF INTERACTIVE 2014 CHAMPIONSHIP June 9 Guatemala’s Fred Mazariegos has been crowned the CONCACAF Interactive 2014 (CI14) champion. Mazariegos, who goes under the Play Station 3 (PS3) gamer tag of mfnfr, defeated Trinidad & Tobago representative Damani Garcia 3-1 on the final day of play to top
the Hexagonal table with 13 points, going unbeaten in five games with a 4-1-0 record. As a result of capturing the CONCACAF Interactive title, Mazariegos won a trip to Brazil as a special guest at the FIFA Interactive World Cup (FIWC) 2014 Grand Final, July 2-3. The Hexagonal’s six participants, each
representing a CONCACAF Member Association, qualified from a field of nearly 3,000 entrants. They ultimately progressed via their play in Season 6 of the FIWC Online qualifiers in March 2014 accessed through EA SPORTS™ FIFA 14 on PS3.
candidate to stand for election. The magnitude of the occasion was not lost on Bien-Aime, who first thanked family members for their unwavering support of her work in world football administration. Speaking to an audience that included CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb and Caribbean Football Union President Gordon Derrick, as well as other regional and local football officials, Bien-Aime urged local football administrators to remain focused on infrastructure and player development. “Let’s stay the course that has been laid out by improving on our facilities to enable us to host more high-profile events and in doing so we will provide sustainable opportunities for all local players,” she expressed. Bien-Aime also sits on the FIFA Executive Committee and joins Lydia Nsekera of
Burundi as only the world’s second female member association president.
BIEN-AIME ELECTED AS TCIFA PRESIDENT July 22
Sonia Bien-Aime, a CONCACAF Executive Committee member, was elected as President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) at its Annual General Meeting. She replaces the outgoing Christopher Bryan after being nominated as the sole
UPCOMING COMMITTEE MEETINGS Aug. 16 Grand Cayman Finance
Aug. 16 Grand Cayman Security/Fair Play Aug. 17 Grand Cayman Youth Championships Aug. 22 Montreal
Women’s Technical
Aug. 22 Montreal
Women’s Championships
Aug. 23 Montreal
Gold Cup
Sept. 19 Grand Cayman Statutes and Regulations Sept. 19 Grand Cayman Executive Committee
UPCOMING EDITION IN SEPTEMBER 2014 For additional information: visit www.concacaf.com
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