New York Cosmos defeat Cuba in diplomatic soccer friendly
Updated: 2015-06-03 11:04
(Agencies)
|
|||||||||||
New York Cosmos players David Diosa (L), Hunter Gorskie (C) and Lucky Mkosana celebrate a goal against Cuba during a friendly game in Havana June 2, 2015. [Photo/Agencies] |
HAVANA - The New York Cosmos dominated Cuba 4-1 on Tuesday in a soccer friendly meant to promote better relations between the United States and Cuba and demonstrate that baseball-mad Cuba is also becoming a soccer nation.
International goodwill was on display as the US flag was unfurled on the pitch and the US national anthem played before the match, both rarities in Communist-governed Cuba.
But the Cuban national team disappointed against a club from the second-tier North American Soccer League, falling behind 4-0 in the first half on two goals by Lucky Mkosana and one each from Sebastian Guenzatti and Hagop Chirishian.
Cuba, which has not appeared in a World Cup since 1938, scored five minutes into the second half on a strike by Andy Baquero.
Raul, the former Real Madrid striker and Spain captain who is now the face of the Cosmos, went scoreless.
The Cosmos became the first U.S. professional sports team to visit Cuba since detente in December, when U.S. President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro announced they would seek to restore diplomatic relations that were severed in 1961.
A daylong rain dissuaded many fans who left empty the uncovered sections of the 28,000-seat Pedro Marrero Stadium.
Today's Top News
Ship carrying 458 people sinks in Yangtze River
Russia-China joint sea drills show high-level coordination
Property prices edge up on good demand
FIFA scandal deepens as Blatter aide linked to payments
Beijing's candidacy for Winter Olympics on stage at Expo Milano
Moscow issues entry ban on European politicians
Spanish cave reveals ancient murder mystery
China nuclear power firms merge to fuel global clout
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Premier Li embarks on Latin America visit |
What do we know about AIIB |
Full coverage of Boao Forum for Asia |
Annual legislative and political advisory sessions |
Festival Special: Apps that make holiday shopping easier |
Listed firms caught in anti-corruption net |