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The Haitian women’s national football team secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory against Taiwan’s team on Saturday at the Pink Ladies Week tournament. Despite early challenges and a two-goal deficit, Haiti’s “Grenadières” showed resilience, making a comeback in the final minutes to continue their winning streak in the tournament.
Haiti’s squad entered the match with high expectations, especially with star players Nerilia Mondésir and Melchie Dumornay in the starting lineup after sitting out the first game of the tournament. However, the team faced coordination challenges, with noticeable missteps in the first half. Taiwan capitalized on Haiti’s defensive gaps, scoring the opening goal off a seemingly low-threat play. The Grenadières struggled to connect their defense with their attack, leaving opportunities unconverted and momentum stunted.
In the second half, the Grenadières continued to struggle, with Taiwan exploiting a weak spot in Haiti’s defense to score again. Goalkeeper Kerly Théus found herself out of position, allowing a well-placed lob shot to find the back of the net, further widening Taiwan’s lead.
Haiti’s attack remained uncoordinated for much of the second half, as opportunities slipped away and the team found itself facing a seemingly insurmountable two-goal deficit.
However, Haiti’s determination surfaced in the closing minutes of the match. With seven minutes left on the clock, the Grenadières were awarded a penalty, which Melchie Dumornay converted with precision. Just three minutes later, another penalty gave Nerilia Mondésir the chance to equalize, which she seized, energizing the team and fans alike.
At the 90th minute, Batcheba Louis completed Haiti’s comeback, seizing an opportunity in Taiwan’s penalty box to score the decisive third goal, handing Haiti a thrilling 3-2 victory.
With this comeback victory, Haiti maintains a perfect record in the Pink Ladies Week tournament under coach Malou Quignette. The Grenadières are set to face Russia on October 29, where they hope to continue their winning form and refine their performance, particularly in defensive organization and attacking transitions.
