Golden Jaguars gelling well ahead of WCQ

The Senior Men’s National Team has thanked fans for their support so far and asked them to help Guyana roar to victory in this month’s crunch 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Trinidad and Tobago and the Bahamas.

The Golden Jaguars’ players in training for their opening Group F first round Concacaf qualifier against Trinidad and Tobago at 19:00h local time on March 25 in the Dominican Republic. The Jaguars then take on the Bahamas at 15:00h local time on March 30.

“We really appreciate your support and we ask you to continue to support us – to send us those positive vibes and to roar with us to victory,” goalkeeper Akel Clarke said in a message to fans.

“Training is going really well – the guys are really focused at the right intensity. I feel really good about the upcoming matches and excited to put on the country’s colours and to represent Guyana.”

To qualify for the second round of Concacaf qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Guyana must top its group, which also includes Puerto Rico and St. Kitts and Nevis.

Forward Omari Glasgow said the players are “excited and confident” about the challenge ahead. “The atmosphere in the camp is very high,” Glasgow said.

“I feel very good about the matches and I am very excited to play so that I can help Guyana, the players and coaches to come out victorious. The players are locked in and focused. I want to tell the fans to continue to support us – we will make you guys proud.”

Head Coach Marcio Maximo said the squad, which features 12 domestic-based players and 11 non-domestic-based players, has already “completely integrated as one group”.

“They are completely focused. Everybody is proud to represent Guyana. Each training session is being conducted with the same intensity as a match, as it should be, with total attention on what we need to do,” Maximo said.

“We are maximising the time and attacking all aspects. We are focusing to create balance in the team, focusing on the physical, technical and tactical aspects of the game.”

Guyana’s previous two matches against Trinidad and Tobago have resulted in draws, including a 1-1 tie in the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup. “It is very important for us to start well,” Maximo said.

“These will be different games but each one demands our equal attention. We will be competitive. If we maintain the same attitude, we will do well. The match always reflects what you are doing in training – that’s why all of us are optimistic, while also respecting our opponents.” (GFF)