Costa Rica Women 0–3 Venezuela Women | UNCAF Women's American Games | July 30, 2026

Venezuela Women's national team dominated Costa Rica Women 3-0 in the UNCAF Women's American Games at the Estadio Nacional in San José on Thursday night. The emphatic victory gave Venezuela a strong start in the tournament and left Costa Rica with work to do if they aim to progress from the group stage.

First half: Venezuela take charge early

Venezuela came out with clear intent, pressing Costa Rica high up the pitch and forcing errors in the build-up. The opening goal arrived in the 12th minute when Deyna Castellanos intercepted a loose pass, drove towards goal, and unleashed a powerful strike that gave Costa Rica goalkeeper Noelia Araya no chance. It set the tone for a one-sided opening period.

Costa Rica struggled to create any meaningful chances, with their midfield overrun by Venezuela's energetic trio of Castellanos, Gabriela García, and Yenifer Giménez. Venezuela doubled their lead just before half-time through a well-taken header from Yenifer Giménez following a precise cross from the right flank.

Second half: Venezuela seal the win

The second half followed a similar pattern. Venezuela continued to look dangerous every time they moved forward, while Costa Rica could not find a way to disrupt their rhythm. The third goal came in the 67th minute when substitute Paola Villamizar finished off a swift counter-attack, slotting home from close range after a cross from the left.

Costa Rica had a few half-chances, most notably a shot from Katherine Alvarado that went just wide in the 75th minute, but they were rarely able to test Venezuela goalkeeper Yerlin Uzcátegui. Venezuela managed the remainder of the game professionally, keeping possession and seeing out a comfortable clean sheet.

Standout performers

• Deyna Castellanos – The star forward scored one and assisted another; her movement and vision caused constant problems.
• Yenifer Giménez – A goal and a tireless midfield display, she was excellent both defensively and going forward.
• Yerlin Uzcátegui – Had little to do but commanded her area well, ensuring a clean sheet.

Tournament implications

Venezuela jump to the top of their group with three points and a healthy goal difference. Costa Rica, now with zero points and a minus-three goal difference, face an uphill battle. They will need to win their remaining group matches and hope for other results to go their way to advance to the knockout stages.

The UNCAF Women's American Games feature some of the region's strongest national teams, and Venezuela have announced themselves as serious contenders with this comprehensive victory. Costa Rica, meanwhile, must regroup quickly ahead of their next fixture.