Kingston, Jamaica — The Reggae Boyz may have already punched their ticket to the final phase of Concacaf World Cup qualifying, yet head coach Steve McClaren insists tonight’s clash with Guatemala (6:00 p.m., National Stadium) is about far more than formalities.
With both nations sitting on nine points from three outings, first place in the group is at stake. For Jamaica, however, the sub-plot is sharper: home dominance has been missing, and McClaren wants that narrative flipped—immediately.
The ‘Office’ Question
Since taking the helm last July, McClaren’s charges have collected zero wins from three National Stadium appearances—a 0-1 Nations League loss to the United States sandwiched by scoreless stalemates with Cuba and Honduras. Victories over St Vincent & the Grenadines (Sabina Park) and Trinidad & Tobago (Montego Bay Sports Complex) offered some respite, but “The Office” still awaits a signature performance.
“A successful campaign starts with owning your home turf,” McClaren said after Saturday’s nervy 1-0 result away to the British Virgin Islands. “When teams fly into Kingston, they should feel the pressure before the whistle. That pressure only comes if we score goals and win matches here.”
Fresh Faces, Familiar Ambition
Midfield metronome Jon Russell—seven caps, none on Jamaican soil—admits he is itching for his first Kingston run-out.
“Walking onto this pitch in front of our people will be special,” the 23-year-old said. “The objective is clear: three points, and if I can add a goal, even better.”
Why Guatemala Won’t Be Gift-Wrapping Points
Jamaica’s historical edge (11 wins, 3 draws in 18 meetings) means little against a Guatemala outfit unbeaten in four of its last five fixtures and fresh off a statement victory over the Dominican Republic.
“Technically tidy, tactically rehearsed—Guatemala will ask questions the BVI never could,” McClaren warned. “Perfect preparation for the battles ahead.”
The Scoring Conundrum
With centre-forward Warner Brown and rookie striker Rumarn Burrell both contributing recently, the coach is now calling on wide men Leon Bailey and Demarai Gray—plus the midfield line—to shoulder more of the finishing load.
“Our conversion rate is not where it needs to be. Goals from the flanks and the middle third will decide tight games this summer,” he noted.
Fitness Notes
- Centre-back Richard King faces a late assessment after a knock versus the BVI.
- Midfield anchor Isaac Hayden has shaken off the illness that sidelined him last week.
Jamaica Squad — Guatemala Fixture
Goalkeepers: Andre Blake, Shaquan Davis, Jahmali Waite
Defenders: Damion Lowe, Richard King, Kyle Ming, Dexter Lembikisa, Amari’i Bell, Greg Leigh, Mason Holgate, Joel Latibeaudiere
Midfielders: Isaac Hayden, Kasey Palmer, Ravel Morrison, Jon Russell, Dwayne Atkinson
Forwards: Leon Bailey, Demarai Gray, Renaldo Cephas, Kaheim Dixon, Warner Brown, Rumarn Burrell, Tyreece Campbell, Romario Williams
