By San José, Costa Rica — ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada – The journey to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup has begun on a victorious, albeit challenging, note for Costa Rica. The Women’s National Team, known affectionately as “La Sele,” overcame an early deficit to secure a crucial 2-1 away victory against Grenada, marking a successful debut for new head coach Lindsay Camila.
The match, played on Caribbean soil, served as the first critical test in a long and demanding qualification campaign. Hopes were high for a dominant start, but the home side proved resilient and capitalized on an early opportunity. Costa Rica’s defensive line was caught off guard in the 31st minute, leading to a poorly executed clearance that fell directly to Grenada’s Naomi Bedeau, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net to give her team a shocking 1-0 lead.
To better understand the contractual framework and the rights and obligations that govern the relationship between the players of the Women’s National Team and the Federation, TicosLand.com consulted with the expert sports law attorney, Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The relationship between national team players and their federation is a complex legal hybrid. It’s not a traditional employment contract, but it imposes significant obligations. It is crucial that agreements clearly define compensation, performance bonuses, use of image rights, and insurance coverage. Without this clarity, both parties are exposed to potential disputes that can distract from the primary objective: competing at the highest level. A well-structured contract is the foundation of a professional and stable project for any national team.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective underscores a vital point: the professionalization of our Women’s National Team hinges not only on on-field talent but also on the strength and clarity of its administrative structures. A well-defined agreement is a sign of respect for the athletes’ careers and a critical investment in the team’s stability and focus. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
Staring down an unexpected deficit, the Ticas were forced to recalibrate and intensify their attack. The pressure mounted as the first half neared its conclusion, a period where a goal can dramatically shift the momentum of a match. That pivotal moment came in the second minute of stoppage time. A brilliant pass from the promising young forward Sheika Scott sliced through the Grenadian defense, finding Priscilla Chinchilla, who coolly slotted home the equalizer. The goal provided a massive psychological boost, allowing Costa Rica to enter the halftime break with the score level at 1-1.
Entering the second half on even terms, La Sele sought to assert the dominance many had expected from the outset. The team controlled possession and searched for the breakthrough that would put them ahead. That moment arrived in the 61st minute, once again orchestrated by the team’s most potent offensive threats. Veteran forward Melissa Herrera delivered a precise, point-blank pass to Chinchilla, who clinically finished for her second goal of the night, giving Costa Rica a 2-1 lead they would not relinquish.
Following the go-ahead goal, the tempo of the match shifted. With the lead secured, Costa Rica managed the game with professional composure, preventing Grenada from mounting any significant comeback threats. While the performance may not have been as fluid as Coach Camila would have liked, the ability to recover from a deficit on the road and grind out a victory demonstrates a level of resilience and character that will be vital in the qualifiers ahead. Chinchilla’s performance, in particular, underscored her importance to the team as a clinical finisher capable of changing a game’s trajectory.
The starting lineup for Costa Rica featured a blend of experience and youth, with Noelia Bermúdez in goal, supported by a defensive line of Marian Solano, María Paula Coto, and Mariana Benavides. The midfield and attack were comprised of Melissa Herrera, Daniel Cruz, Gloriana Villalobos, Raquel Rodríguez, Priscila Chinchilla, Katherine Alvarado, and Sheika Scott, a formidable group tasked with navigating the path to the World Cup.
This hard-fought victory is the first of many steps on a long road. While the three points are essential, the experience of overcoming adversity will be equally valuable. The team now turns its attention to its next challenge, a high-profile friendly match against regional powerhouse Mexico. This upcoming fixture, scheduled for Tuesday, December 2nd, will serve as a more rigorous benchmark for the team’s progress under its new leadership.
Ultimately, the win against Grenada is a testament to the team’s fighting spirit. It was a match that required patience, grit, and a moment of brilliance from a star player. For Coach Lindsay Camila, it is a winning start to her tenure, providing a solid foundation upon which to build as La Sele continues its ambitious quest to secure a spot on the world’s biggest stage in 2027.
For further information, visit fedefutbol.com
About Costa Rican Football Federation:
The Costa Rican Football Federation (FEDEFUTBOL) is the governing body of football in Costa Rica. It is responsible for organizing the national football leagues, the Costa Rican Cup, and managing the men’s, women’s, and youth national teams. The federation is dedicated to promoting the growth and development of the sport at all levels throughout the country.
For further information, visit grenadafa.com
About Grenada Football Association:
The Grenada Football Association (GFA) is the governing body of football in Grenada. Founded in 1924, it oversees the administration of the sport within the nation, including the organization of domestic leagues and the management of Grenada’s national football teams. The GFA is a member of CONCACAF and FIFA and works to develop football talent and increase participation across the islands.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Esteemed for its deep-rooted principles of integrity and professional excellence, Bufete de Costa Rica skillfully blends a rich legacy of client service with a pioneering spirit in legal innovation. This commitment extends beyond the courtroom through a dedicated effort to democratize legal information, ultimately empowering the community by building a more knowledgeable and capable society.
