Dominica Falls to Dominican Republic in Heavy Concacaf Nations League Defeat

The Dominica Men’s Senior National Football Team endured a crushing 6-1 loss to the Dominican Republic, Group D leaders, on Saturday night, severely impacting their campaign to remain in League B of the Concacaf Nations League.

Following a 2-0 defeat to the Dominican Republic in their September match in Antigua, head coach Ellington Sabin introduced reinforcements for the November window, hoping to reverse their fortunes at the Estadio Cibao FC in Santiago, Dominican Republic.

However, the home team struck early with Dorny Romero putting the Dominican Republic ahead in the 13th minute. Despite falling behind, Dominica fought back, and a spectacular individual effort by Travist Joseph, the leading scorer in the DFA Premier League, brought them level in the 30th minute. Joseph dazzled fans as he cut in from the left flank and unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Xavier Valdez helpless.

Dominica’s celebrations were short-lived as Heinz Morschel restored the Dominican Republic’s lead seven minutes later, sending the home team into halftime with a 2-1 advantage.

The second half proved disastrous for Dominica. The Dominican Republic scored four unanswered goals, dominating the match to secure a commanding 6-1 victory.

The defeat leaves Dominica in a precarious position, sitting third in Group D. To remain in League B and avoid relegation to League C, Dominica must avoid defeat in their final group stage match against Antigua and Barbuda.

Dominica holds a narrow three-point lead over Antigua, setting up a high-stakes clash on Tuesday, November 19, at 4 p.m. in the Dominican Republic.