Verdes captain Jordy Polanco strikes in injury time to beat Belmopan 1-0

Jordy Polanco celebrates Verdes’ winning goal. Photo Credit: Verdes FC

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Verdes FC (#1) showed their championship pedigree on Saturday night, edging Belmopan FC (#4) 1–0 in the first leg of their Premier League of Belize 2025–2026 Opening Championship semifinal at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in Belmopan.

After a tense, scoreless first half, Belmopan’s defense — anchored by veterans Ian Gaynair and Eugene Martinez — held firm against Verdes’ attacking depth. But in injury time, captain Jordy Polanco (#10) broke the deadlock, striking in the 92nd minute to secure the win for the defending champions. Already a decisive contributor this season, Polanco once again proved his leadership, delivering when it mattered most.
Verdes Starting XI – Photo Credit: Verdes FC/Wilton Ixtecoc

The result gives Verdes a narrow advantage heading into the return leg at the Edmund Marshalleck Stadium in Benque Viejo del Carmen on Saturday, November 29. Belmopan, who rely on the attacking duo of Adrien Graffin and Dawoda Kamara plus the experience of Miguel Garcia and goalkeeper Oscar Palomino, will need to find a way to break through against Verdes’ formidable defense and elite goalkeeper Woodrow West.

Earlier in the day, Progresso FC (#3) upset Port Layola FC (#2) 2–1 in Orange Walk, setting up a dramatic second leg in Belize City.
Verdes celebrate victory. Photo Credit: Verdes FC

Semifinal First Leg Results (Nov 22):
– Verdes FC 1–0 Belmopan FC – Isidoro Beaton Stadium, Belmopan
– Progresso FC 2–1 Port Layola FC – People’s Stadium, Orange Walk

Upcoming Second Legs:
– Verdes FC vs Belmopan FC – Saturday, November 29 – Edmund Marshalleck Stadium, Benque Viejo del Carmen – 7:30pm
– Port Layola FC vs Progresso FC – Sunday, November 30 – Marion Jones Sports Complex, Belize City – 4:00pm