GDF FC opens CFU Club Shield campaign with victory
Guyana Defence Force Football Club (GDF FC), the reigning champions of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League, secured a commanding 2-0 victory over St Paul’s United Strikers FC of St Kitts and Nevis in the opening match of the 2025 Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Shield, which got underway in Trinidad and Tobago on Saturday.
Playing at the Larry Gomes Stadium, the Guyanese outfit asserted dominance from the opening whistle, controlling possession and creating several early chances. The St Paul’s goalkeeper, Uzal Hodge, was called into action multiple times, producing a string of outstanding saves to keep the scoreline level.
In the 35th minute, a powerful strike from Stephen McDonald forced Hodge into a full-stretch save, and, moments later, he was again called upon to deny another threatening effort.
GDF FC Captain Colin Nelson goes through the pre-game protocol before netting his team’s opening goal (CFU Photo)
St Paul’s almost found the opener in first-half stoppage time when Kalonji Clarke unleashed a well-placed shot, only to be denied by an alert Jamain Cumberbatch in goal for Guyana. However, the Guyanese team broke the deadlock shortly thereafter. In the 45+4 minute, a handball in the area by St Paul’s Captain, Omar Francis resulted in a penalty. Colin Nelson calmly stepped up and converted from the spot to give GDF a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with the Guyana Defence Force maintaining control. Meanwhile, St Paul’s United Strikers fought valiantly to stay in the match. The St Kitts and Nevis side had a chance to equalise in the 65th minute, but Cumberbatch once again came up big, cutting off a dangerous cross.
Just as in the first half, the Guyanese side added a goal in stoppage time. Stephen McDonald, who had been instrumental throughout the match, sealed the win with a well-taken strike, capping off a standout performance and ensuring all three points for his team.
The Guyana Defence Force will next face Moca FC, while St Paul’s United Strikers look to bounce back against SV Britannia, with both matches scheduled for today, Monday, July 28, 2025.
