Friday, November 24th, 2023.- In a closely contested match that was decided by the narrowest of margins, Canada defeated the United States 4-3, securing the gold medal in goalball at the Parapan American Games for the first time. To add to the joy, this victory earned them a spot in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Since the introduction of this sport in Guadalajara 2011, the Canadian team had consistently achieved third place. However, this time, they finally stood atop the podium.

The American team, on the other hand, were champions in Guadalajara, while in Toronto 2015 and Lima 2019, they finished as runners-up behind Brazil. This time, the opponent in the final changed, but the outcome did not, as, for the third consecutive Parapan American Games, they had to settle for silver.

In the final at the Centro de Deportes Paralímpico of the Estadio Nacional, Canada took a 2-0 lead, but the United States staged a comeback before the end of the first half to level the score at 2-2.

In the final stretch, the Canadian team once again pulled ahead, leading 4-2. Although the Americans narrowed the gap, this time it was not enough to mount a comeback.

Written by Patricio Cabello y Alejandro Pérez; translated by Paulette Bertín / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport
Photo by Christian Zapata / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport