Costa Rica and the United States have qualified for the 2015 Women’s World Cup as semifinal winners at the CONCACAF Women’s Championship. Costa Rica defeated Trinidad-Tobago 3-0 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in extra time, and the US defeated their rivals Mexico 3-0.

The Ticas had the better of play in much of the first semifinal but only came away with one goal, from Carolina VENEGAS early in the match. An equaliser by Lauryn HUTCHINSON forced overtime, and with no further goals, the match went to penalties. Costa Rican keeper Dinnia DIAZ saved all three Trinidadian attempts to lead her nation to their first qualification.

The second semifinal was a rematch of a famous upset at this same stage, when Mexico defeated the US for the first time in their history and forced the heavily favoured Americans into a playoff to qualify. This time, however, a dominant performance from the US, including two goals from Carli LLOYD, ensured that the result was not in doubt. The Mexican squad managed a single shot attempt compared to the US’s 21.

Mexico and Trinidad-Tobago each have two more chances to qualify. They play off for third place with the winner qualifying and the loser taking on Ecuador in the CONCACAF/​CONMEBOL playoff. The tournament final sees Costa Rica try to win their first CONCACAF title against the US.