ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — The future of women’s football in Antigua and Barbuda is set for an international test as the nation’s Under-17 Women’s National Team has commenced its journey to Curaçao for the highly anticipated CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Qualifiers. This tournament represents a crucial developmental milestone for the young squad, offering them a platform to compete against regional counterparts.
The team faces a demanding group-stage schedule designed to evaluate their skill and endurance. Their inaugural match is scheduled against Guyana on Sunday evening at 7 p.m. local time. Following this, the squad will confront Guatemala in an afternoon fixture on Tuesday at 4 p.m. The competition continues Thursday night with a prime-time matchup versus the Cayman Islands at 7 p.m., culminating in their final group-stage encounter against St. Lucia on Saturday at 4 p.m.
These qualifiers are recognized as an essential proving ground for emerging football talent across the CONCACAF region. The tournament structure provides national youth teams with competitive international experience and the opportunity to secure advancement, positioning themselves among the confederation’s elite youth programs.
The Antigua and Barbuda delegation approaches the tournament with strategic focus, aiming to deliver robust performances against a varied field of opponents. This participation is viewed as a fundamental component of the country’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its football program at the youth international level, building a foundation for future success in women’s soccer.