Canada Shuts Out Argentina 3-0 in Stoney’s Home Debut at BC Place

Canada’s Women’s National Team opened their two-game series against Argentina with a confident 3-0 win Friday night at BC Place in Vancouver. It was head coach Casey Stoney’s first match in charge on home turf—and her squad made sure it started on the right foot.

From the opening whistle, Canada set the tone. Argentina looked off-balance early, struggling with the pace and pressure. Janine Beckie and Adriana Leon wasted no time getting forward, and Canada’s press left the visitors scrambling to connect passes.

The breakthrough came in the 24th minute, and it was a special one. Defender Jade Rose, recently back from injury, scored her first-ever goal for Canada after a slick set-piece routine. Rose was in the right place at the right time, tucking the ball home from close range.

Fifteen minutes later, Canada doubled their lead. Leon sliced through Argentina’s backline before setting up Nichelle Prince in front of goal. The first attempt was blocked, but Prince made no mistake with the rebound, slotting it past Argentine keeper Solana Pereyra.

The second half slowed down. Argentina dropped deep, trying to limit the damage, while Canada held most of the ball but didn’t do a lot with it. Stoney’s squad looked a bit unsure—stuck between trying to kill the game off or go hunting for more goals.

Still, there was one more bright moment. Hometown midfielder Julia Grosso sealed the win in the 85th minute with a sharp finish after Beckie rang a shot off the post. The crowd of about 12,000 roared as Grosso ran straight to the bench, clearly soaking in the moment.

For Stoney, it was a promising step. She liked her team’s physicality and energy in the first half but called out the second-half sloppiness and missed chances. Still, she reminded reporters she’s only had five sessions with the group—and that this is just the beginning.

Canada and Argentina will meet again on Tuesday night, April 7, at Starlight Stadium in Langford, BC. Get your tickets now!

Check our favourite photos of the game below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!

All Photo Credit: Caroline Charruyer