Canada and Jamaica are both on a point each after drawing their respective opening games. With all four teams in group B on level pegging on a point each, they still have all to play for to secure a spot in the second round. In the early kick off on Saturday, Jamaica and Canada will be desperately seeking maximum points.
The battle for a spot in the next round is paramount on Winfred Schaefer’s mind as the ‘Reggae Boyz’ take on Canada in their second match in group B on Saturday July 11, at the BBVA Compass Stadium, Houston, Texas.
Both teams are no stranger to each other, dating as far as 1985 they have played 18 games, Jamaica won 4, drawn 8 and lost 6. He will be fielding his best 11 and is hoping for a victory. Anything less would be consider a loss because there is no room for error.
Both teams had experienced some early-tournament defensive difficulties in their openers; Costa Rica punished Jamaica for theirs, while Canada was nearly undone by theirs against El Salvador. The team that is best able to tighten up on Saturday will be in an advantageous position to gain maximum points.
DIFFERENCE MAKERS
Giles Barnes, F, Jamaica. The Houston Dynamo attacker will be playing in his customary home stadium on Saturday, providing him with even more incentive to make a big impact.
Darren Mattock, F, Jamaica the Portland Timberwolves player had a wonderful season but is yet to stamp his class at the international level. If and when he starts scoring he can be a menace to defenders. Let’s hope he starts scoring
Tesho Akendele, M/F, Canada. His quality made him a fan favorite in the MLS, but the 23-year-old has yet to fully assert himself in a Canadian uniform. He followed a nervous Canada debut last month with a goal in his next game; perhaps with the Gold Cup butterflies now out, he’s ready to put the team on his back against Jamaica
Kyle Bekker, M/F, the FC Dallas player had an average game against El Salvador and if it wasn’t for his poor decisions they would came out on top with all three points. If Bekker should have an excellent game today Jamaica can be in a lot of trouble.
Prediction: The Reggae Boyz over the Canucks, 3-0.
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