Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Curacao becomes smallest nation to qualify for World Cup

    Curacao becomes smallest nation to qualify for World Cup

    In a historic moment for international football, the Caribbean island of Curacao has become the smallest nation ever to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. With a population of just over 150,000 and a land area of 171 square miles, Curacao surpassed Iceland’s record, set in 2018, as the smallest country to reach the tournament. The milestone was achieved after a tense 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston, a result that dashed Jamaica’s hopes of qualifying for their first World Cup since 1998. The match saw a dramatic injury-time penalty decision overturned by VAR, sealing Curacao’s place in the 2026 tournament.

    Curacao’s qualification is a testament to their remarkable rise in international football. Just a decade ago, they were ranked 150th in FIFA’s world rankings, but they now sit at 82nd. The expanded 2026 World Cup format, which includes 48 teams, has provided smaller nations like Curacao with a greater opportunity to compete on the global stage. They will join Cape Verde, Uzbekistan, and Jordan as debutants in the tournament.

    Leading the team is 78-year-old Dutch coach Dick Advocaat, who will become the oldest coach in World Cup history. Advocaat, a veteran of international football with stints in the Netherlands, South Korea, and Russia, took charge of Curacao after resolving a payment dispute between players and the country’s football association. His leadership has been pivotal in transforming the team’s fortunes.

    Curacao’s squad is a blend of Dutch talent and British-born players with family ties to the island. Notable players include Joshua Brenet, Ar’jany Martha, Sontje Hansen, and Tahith Chong, who previously played for Manchester United. For midfielder Juninho Bacuna, representing Curacao alongside his brother Leandro, the team’s captain, has been a source of immense pride.

    Bacuna, who once played for the Netherlands at the under-21 level, believes Curacao’s success will inspire more Dutch-born players to join the team, known as The Blue Family. “We’re seeing more young players choosing Curacao over the Netherlands, and that’s making our team even stronger,” he said.

    Curacao’s journey to the World Cup is a story of perseverance, unity, and ambition. As they prepare to make their debut on football’s biggest stage, the tiny island nation has already etched its name in the annals of sporting history.

  • Grenada’s vision for regional talent development at Soccerex Miami 2025

    Grenada’s vision for regional talent development at Soccerex Miami 2025

    Marlon Glean, President of the Grenada Football Association (GFA), recently made waves at Soccerex Miami 2025, where he contributed to a dynamic panel discussion titled “Prospect to Pro.” The session delved into essential strategies for fostering elite talent, establishing modern academies, and creating cross-border pathways for players—themes that resonate deeply with Glean’s vision for Caribbean football development.

  • A New Chapter for Caribbean Racing: The Antigua Racing Cup April 9–12, 2026

    A New Chapter for Caribbean Racing: The Antigua Racing Cup April 9–12, 2026

    The Caribbean motorsport scene is set to witness a groundbreaking event as the Antigua Racing Cup gears up for its inaugural edition from April 9 to 12, 2026. This high-octane competition promises to redefine racing in the region, attracting top-tier drivers, teams, and enthusiasts from across the globe. Held on the picturesque island of Antigua, the event will feature a diverse range of racing formats, including circuit races, time trials, and endurance challenges, showcasing the island’s unique terrain and vibrant culture. Organizers aim to position the Antigua Racing Cup as a premier international motorsport destination, fostering economic growth and tourism while celebrating the Caribbean’s rich racing heritage. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to sustainability, the event is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the world of motorsport.

  • W.K-droom Suriname uiteengespat na pijnlijke 3-1 nederlaag tegen Guatemala

    W.K-droom Suriname uiteengespat na pijnlijke 3-1 nederlaag tegen Guatemala

    Suriname’s long-held aspiration to qualify for the FIFA World Cup was dashed on Tuesday evening in a disheartening 3-1 loss to Guatemala. The match, held under immense anticipation, saw Suriname fall behind early with a 1-0 deficit, which only worsened as the game progressed. Despite a late own goal by Guatemala in stoppage time, the result was never in doubt, leaving Suriname’s hopes in tatters. The defeat was particularly bitter as Panama, their direct competitor, secured a 3-0 victory over El Salvador, clinching their spot in the final tournament. Suriname now faces a last-ditch opportunity to qualify through the CONCACAF Confederation Playoffs, though the pressure will be even greater. The loss has left fans, both in Suriname and the diaspora, deeply disappointed, but their unwavering support remains a silver lining in this challenging moment.

  • FLASH : Haiti has qualified for the 2026 World Cup (video)

    FLASH : Haiti has qualified for the 2026 World Cup (video)

    In a historic triumph, Haiti’s national football team, the Grenadiers, has secured direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking their return to the global stage after a 51-year hiatus. The decisive moment came on November 18, 2025, during the final phase of the CONCACAF qualifiers, where Haiti faced Nicaragua in the second leg of their sixth group match at the Estadio Ergilio Hato in Willemstad, Curaçao. The Grenadiers emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, cementing their place at the top of Group C. Deedson Louicius opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a precise left-footed shot, while Ruben Providence doubled the lead with a close-range header just before halftime. The team’s defensive prowess in the second half ensured Nicaragua’s repeated attacks were thwarted. This achievement not only signifies Haiti’s second World Cup appearance since their debut in 1974 but also unites generations of Haitians worldwide in celebration. Under the guidance of French coach Sébastien Migné, the Grenadiers showcased resilience and skill, with standout performances from players like Louicius, Providence, and Carlens Arcus. The victory is a testament to Haiti’s growing football legacy and a source of national pride.

  • Morgen nationale vrije dag bij behalen WK-eindronde

    Morgen nationale vrije dag bij behalen WK-eindronde

    The Surinamese government has expressed unwavering confidence in the National Football Team (Natio) ahead of tonight’s crucial World Cup qualifier. Minister of Home Affairs, Marinus Bee, revealed to Starnieuws that the administration is so assured of victory that preparations for a national holiday are already underway. However, the holiday will only be officially declared if Natio secures a win against Guatemala, thereby securing Suriname’s place in the upcoming FIFA World Cup finals. This move underscores the government’s belief in the team’s potential and its commitment to celebrating this historic achievement. The match is seen as a pivotal moment for Surinamese football, with the nation eagerly awaiting the outcome.

  • Caribbean programmes give thumbs up to unified basketball tournament

    Caribbean programmes give thumbs up to unified basketball tournament

    The Caribbean region witnessed a groundbreaking event as the Special Olympics 3×3 unified basketball tournament took place in Guadeloupe from November 14 to 15. This historic competition, held at the Daniel Cassin gymnasium, marked the first of its kind in the region, bringing together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to promote social inclusion. Delegations from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, St Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, and host nation Guadeloupe participated in the event, which is now being hailed as a potential permanent fixture on the regional sports calendar.

  • Trinidad and Tobago ruggermen set for RAN Sevens on home soil

    Trinidad and Tobago ruggermen set for RAN Sevens on home soil

    The Trinidad and Tobago (TT) men’s rugby team is set to compete in the 2025 Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens tournament, scheduled to take place at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Malabar from November 21 to 23. The 12-member squad includes nine players from last year’s team, which reached the final before falling to Canada. Notable returning players include Nigel Ballington, Shakeel Dyte, Keston Earle, Agboola Silverthorn, Keishon Walker, and dead-ball specialist Ruari O’Farrell. The tournament will feature teams from Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, and defending champions Canada. The TT team will be led by coach Jonathan O’Connor and managed by Chad Simeon. The men’s tier one knockout matches will begin on November 22, with the final set for November 23. The women’s category will see TT compete against Barbados, Bermuda, Guyana, Jamaica, and reigning champions Mexico. The top three men’s teams (excluding Canada) and the top two women’s teams will qualify for the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games in the Dominican Republic. Additionally, the men’s tier two winner, if a full member union of RAN, will earn a promotion opportunity.

  • Darius Harding, Mariah Charles sparkle at secondary schools’ national 5K

    Darius Harding, Mariah Charles sparkle at secondary schools’ national 5K

    In a thrilling display of athletic prowess, CTS College’s Darius Harding and Tableland Secondary’s Mariah Charles emerged as the champions of the Secondary Schools Track and Field (SSTF) National 5K race, held at North Eastern College, Sangre Grande on November 13. The event, which saw participation from over 650 student-athletes, was a testament to the young talents’ endurance and determination.

    Harding, the standout performer in the boys’ category, clocked an impressive 16 minutes and 49 seconds, making him the only competitor to finish under 17 minutes. Queen’s Royal College’s Isaiah Alder secured second place with a time of 17:33, while Toco Secondary’s Darreon Thom took third in 17:48. Notably, El Dorado East Secondary’s Brion Scott, who won gold in the boys’ under-17 800-metre event at the Carifta Athletics Games earlier this year, finished fourth overall but topped his age group with a time of 17:55.

    On the girls’ side, Charles was the undisputed star, not only winning the under-15 age group but also claiming the overall female title with a time of 23:03. St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain’s Zahzara Williams came in second among the girls with a time of 23:26, followed by her schoolmate Arya Siewrattan in third place with 24:11. The Bishop Anstey High School under-15 duo of Aaliyah Griffith (24:23) and Keanna Cummings (24:42) completed the top five.

    The event also highlighted the depth of talent across various age groups. Arima Central Secondary’s Mikael Serrette (18:02) finished fifth overall and topped the under-17 category, while North Eastern’s Raymond Lewis placed ninth overall and won the under-15 category with a time of 19:24. Other notable performers included Presentation College San Fernando’s Shane Bissoon (18:05), Presentation College Chaguanas’ Christopher Radhay (18:47), Trinity College Moka’s Asayeis Leith (19:20), and Toco’s Shaquan Olton (19:29).

    The SSTF National 5K race not only showcased the athletic excellence of these young competitors but also underscored the importance of fostering talent at the grassroots level. The event was a celebration of sportsmanship, perseverance, and the spirit of competition, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.

  • DREAM DELAYED

    DREAM DELAYED

    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.