Gordon sees added pressure for Reggae Boyz

WITH TWO wins to start their World Cup qualifying campaign, Reggae Boyz assistant coach Merron Gordon said the team is perfectly aware of the fans’ expectation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Jamaica is considered one of the favourites from CONCACAF to qualify for the World Cup in the absence of regional giants USA, Mexico, and Canada, who automatically qualify as hosts.

Gordon said the pressure is on for the Boyz to ensure they can achieve the expectations laid before them by the Jamaican fans.

“I think if we don’t make it to this World Cup, then the people of Jamaica would kill us,” he said.

“It’s a tough one, but everyone wants the spots especially because the so-called ‘big boys’ are out of it.”

Gordon said along with the expectations from fans, Jamaica has also become a target for other teams to aim at.

He explained the team’s performances leading up to the qualifiers have cemented the Boyz as one of the best teams from the Caribbean. This, he said, brings out the best in oppositions, who view Jamaica as the team to beat.

His comments rung true following a close 1-0 win against the Dominican Republic at the National Stadium along with with a nervy 3-2 win against Dominica yesterday.

“Everybody has the same dream and hopes as Jamaica, so it’s going to be tough for us. We’re kind of the flag bearers for the Caribbean, so playing against any Caribbean team is always tough for us.

“We’re looking forward to the challenge and hoping we can take this team to the World Cup.”

Despite the nervy start to the campaign, Gordon said the team is confident they will qualify for the World Cup for only the second time in the nation’s history.

The Reggae Boyz sit in second place on six points in Group E action, tied with group leaders Guatemala, who boast a superior goal difference.

Jamaica will play their remaining second-round games in the FIFA international windows next year where the team will be hoping to advance to the third-round of qualifiers.

Gordon said the team is confident ahead of their remaining fixtures against the British Virgin Islands and Guatemala.

“We’re confident. If we really want to go to 2026, then we have to be confident about every game,” he said.

“As I said, we’re very humble in how we approach things. We can’t be overconfident. We have to keep our feet on the ground in order to get three points against any team, especially teams that are fighting for spots for the World Cup.”