Jodee Brown
The Reggae Boyz have their best chance of making their first World Cup since 1998 as they face a formidable yet manageable group in the final round of CONCACAF qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Jamaica faces an all-Caribbean Group B in the do-or-die third round of qualifying for next year’s showpiece event in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Included in their group are rival Trinidad and Tobago, Curacao and Bermuda. The winner of the group will automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, the second-placed side will have a second chance at qualification at the inter-confederation playoff tournament next March, provided they finish as one of the top two runners-up.
What You Need to Know About The Reggae Boyz Opponents
The Boyz clash with the Soca Warriors once again, having played them multiple times in friendlies over the last two years. Their home and away matches mark their first meetings in World Cup qualifying since 2001.
Meanwhile, Curacao, ranked 85th in the world, is coached by ex-Netherlands and Russia international manager, Dick Advocaat, who carried the former to the semi-finals of the 1998 World Cup. Bermuda is in the final round of World Cup qualifying for the first time, led by Bristol City striker and their all-time leading scorer, Nakhi Wells.
When Does the Final Round Start?
The third and final round of CONCACAF qualifying starts in September, with two matches played that month, plus during the October and November FIFA windows. Group A sees Panama take on El Salvador, Guatemala and Suriname. Meanwhile, Group C involves Costa Rica, Honduras, Haiti and Nicaragua.
The Reggae Boyz seek their first World Cup berth since their lone qualification for France ’98, earning a famous draw against Mexico on Nov. 16, 1997, to seal their maiden appearance at the tournament.
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