PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago — Former national defender Tyrone Marshall has expressed optimism about Jamaica’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign but emphasized the need for unwavering focus as the Reggae Boyz approach their decisive final matches. The team is set to face Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) in their penultimate qualifier at the Hasely Crawford Stadium today at 7:00 pm Jamaica time. Marshall, renowned for his spectacular long-range goal in a 1-0 victory over T&T during the 2002 World Cup qualifiers, shared his insights following Jamaica’s inconsistent performance in recent matches. Speaking to the Jamaica Observer, Marshall highlighted the significance of this week’s games, stating, ‘It’s a big week for the Reggae Boyz.’ Jamaica’s campaign began strongly in September with a 4-0 win against Bermuda and a 2-0 victory over T&T. However, their momentum faltered in October with a 2-0 loss to Curaçao, though they rebounded with another 4-0 triumph over Bermuda in Kingston. Marshall praised the team’s overall progress but critiqued their approach in the Curaçao match, describing it as a missed opportunity. ‘The one hiccup I would say is the Curaçao game. I didn’t think the approach was, ‘Let’s go and take care of business there,’’ he remarked. Currently, Jamaica leads Group B with nine points after four games, one point ahead of Curaçao and four ahead of T&T, while Bermuda remains at the bottom with no points. A win against T&T, coupled with a Curaçao loss to Bermuda, would secure Jamaica’s automatic qualification. However, if both Jamaica and Curaçao win tonight, their fate will be determined in their final match in Kingston on Tuesday. Marshall stressed the importance of urgency and a determined mindset, urging the team to treat the T&T game as a ‘do-or-die’ scenario. He also noted the emotional significance of the campaign, particularly in light of Hurricane Melissa’s recent devastation, which has united the nation and could serve as a motivational force for the team. Marshall expressed confidence in Jamaica’s qualification, drawing parallels to their historic 1997 qualification. ‘I have no doubt that Jamaica should qualify and will qualify,’ he declared, eagerly anticipating the upcoming games and the chance to celebrate with his Jamaica jersey on.