A wave of palpable anticipation sweeps across Kensington Oval as Barbados’ Lady Tridents mark their monumental return to international football, poised to confront the formidable Trinidad and Tobago Socca Warriors. This electrifying CONCACAF W Qualifiers Group F opener, scheduled for a 4 p.m. kickoff, signifies more than just a match—it represents a national resurgence for Barbadian football.
At a pre-match press conference held at the Barbados Football Association Technical Centre in Wildey, both squads articulated their readiness and strategic outlook. Group F, a challenging bracket, also includes Central American contenders El Salvador and Honduras.
Barbados Head Coach Kerry Trotman conveyed immense confidence in his squad’s preparation. “The team is in high spirits following intensive training regimens,” Trotman stated. He highlighted the significance of their recent victorious campaign in the Windward Islands Football Association tournament and subsequent international friendlies in St. Vincent and the Grenadines last September. Acknowledging initial challenges with team cohesion, Trotman emphasized that dedicated on-and-off-pitch work has successfully forged a unified squad blending seasoned veterans and promising young talent. “Our objective is to synergize experience with youthful vigor, aiming to deliver a performance worthy of our Independence weekend celebrations,” he elaborated.
Echoing this sentiment, team captain and midfield stalwart Shanice Stevenson infused the occasion with profound national pride. “Competing on the eve of our 59th Independence anniversary amplifies our desire to secure a victory for every Barbadian,” Stevenson declared. She framed the match as an opportunity to embody the national motto of ‘Pride and Industry’ and passionately called for robust home support at the Oval.
The Trinidadian contingent, under the guidance of Head Coach Damian Briggs, arrived with equal determination. Briggs reported excellent acclimatization and focused preparations, noting his strategy to insulate the team from external pressures. “Our squad of 23 is buzzing with excitement and is fully prepared for the challenge,” Briggs announced. He outlined an aggressive tactical philosophy centered on high-intensity pressing without possession and dynamic, attacking football when in control of the ball. “A positive start with a win is our target, as success fosters further confidence,” Briggs concluded.
Soca Warriors captain Kennya Cordner corroborated her coach’s optimistic assessment, confirming the squad’s positive energy and unwavering focus ahead of the pivotal clash against the Lady Tridents.