Guyana’s Golden Jaguars emerged victorious over Barbados in a high-scoring Concacaf Nations League Play-In match at the National Track and Field Facility, West Coast Demerara.
Tuesday evening, the final score of 5-3 showcased the Golden Jaguars’ offensive prowess and determination to advance to the Gold Cup Prelims.
From the outset, Guyana demonstrated its attacking intent, and Osaze de Rosario quickly became the focal point of the match.
The 23-year-old forward opened the scoring in the 27th minute, finding the back of the net with a powerful header inside the penalty area, marking his second consecutive game with a goal.
De Rosario continued to impress, doubling his tally just before halftime.
In the 41st minute, he executed a precise left-footed strike inside the box, further establishing Guyana’s dominance on the field.
Just as the first half drew close, de Rosario completed his hat-trick in the 45’+2 minute.
He converted another header, capitalising on a well-placed free kick service delivered by Nathan Moriah-Welsh.
With three goals in the first half, de Rosario secured a commanding lead and energised the home crowd.
The second half opened with a spirited response from Barbados.
Thierry Gale pulled one back for the visitors in the 49th minute, striking a well-placed ball from Niall Reid-Stephen to give his team a glimmer of hope.
However, Guyana quickly reasserted its control over the match.
In the 57th minute, Omari Glasgow scored with a stunning free kick from outside the box, extending Guyana’s lead once again.
Niall Reid-Stephen, who had already provided an assist, added his name to the scoresheet in the 63rd minute.
He skillfully maneuvered inside the box, creating the necessary space to take a shot at goal, which further solidified Guyana’s advantage.
Despite trailing, Barbados continued to fight back, with Gale scoring his second goal in the 67th minute.
He unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, capitalizing on a recovered ball in midfield by Ethan Taylor.
As the match concluded, Guyana’s dominance was underscored by an unfortunate own goal from Nicoli Brathwaite in the 90’+5 minute.
Brathwaite attempted to block a shot from Isaiah Jones but inadvertently redirected it into his net, sealing the match at 5-3 in favor of Guyana.
With this impressive victory, Guyana clinched the series with an aggregate score of 9-4, propelling them into the Gold Cup Prelims.
The team will now prepare for a challenging match against Guatemala during the FIFA Match Window in March 2025.
This matchup is particularly significant, as it offers Guyana the opportunity to return to the Gold Cup for the first time since 2019.
