In a tense final-round World Cup qualifier at the National Stadium on Tuesday night, Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz were held to a goalless draw by Curaçao, dashing their hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match, which ended in disappointment for the home crowd, saw striker Shamar Nicholson visibly emotional, comforted by a sympathetic fan in the stands. The result leaves Jamaica’s World Cup aspirations alive but dependent on the upcoming inter-confederation playoff, where they could face formidable opponents such as Iraq, DR Congo, Bolivia, or New Macedonia. The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, remains within reach for the Reggae Boyz, though the path to qualification has become significantly more challenging. The team’s resilience and determination will now be put to the test as they prepare for the decisive playoff matches.