Minister of Sport Charles Ramson Jr. recently met with the Senior Golden Jaguars to provide words of encouragement ahead of their upcoming international friendlies in Trinidad and Tobago.
With crucial matches on the horizon in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers and Concacaf Nations League, the team is gearing up for intense competition.
Led by head coach Jamaal Shabazz, the team comprises a local-based contingent as they intensify preparations for the upcoming tournaments.
Coach Shabazz highlighted the opportunity for fringe players and top performers from the KFC Elite Season to showcase their talents and earn a spot on the team.
Minister Ramson emphasized the unprecedented level of investment in the team, aimed at exposing them to higher quality play.
He stressed the importance of hard work and dedication in achieving success on the international stage.
These friendly matches serve as crucial training sessions ahead of the Golden Jaguars’ World Cup qualifier against Panama on June 6, followed by a match against Belize on June 11.
The team finds itself in Group D of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers alongside Panama, Nicaragua, Montserrat, and Belize.
In the Concacaf Nations League, Guyana is placed in Group A of League A, alongside Costa Rica, Guatemala, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Suriname.
Minister Ramson assured that efforts are underway to improve the football venue at Leonora to host the country’s home leg of the Nations League, addressing concerns raised by the regional body CONCACAF regarding the quality of the pitch.
With the necessary attention being given to the venue, Minister Ramson expressed confidence that Guyana will soon be able to host its home games with pride.
He acknowledged the challenges faced in the past but affirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure in the country.
As the Golden Jaguars continue their preparations, they carry the hopes and aspirations of the nation, aiming to make their mark on the international football scene.