Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Jamaica’s Under-20 Reggae Boyz drawn in manageable group — Ricketts

    Jamaica’s Under-20 Reggae Boyz drawn in manageable group — Ricketts

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica has been placed in Group B for the CONCACAF U20 Championship Qualifiers, alongside Puerto Rico, Bonaire, St. Kitts and Nevis, Cayman Islands, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Michael Ricketts, President of the Jamaica Football Federation, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to navigate the group, describing it as ‘manageable.’

    Ricketts emphasized the importance of preparation and execution, stating, ‘No group is ever easy because it all depends on how prepared you are, how organized you are, and ultimately how you perform on match day. But this group looks manageable, and I am hopeful that we will be ready.’

    He also highlighted the broader challenges facing Jamaican football, with multiple competitions underway, including the Senior Men’s World Cup, U-17, U-20, and Women’s Senior tournaments. Despite the demanding schedule, Ricketts affirmed the federation’s commitment to excelling in all qualifying competitions.

    The first round of qualifiers is scheduled to run from February 23 to March 4, 2026. The group winners will advance to the Championship final round, joining seeded teams such as the United States, Mexico, Honduras, Panama, Cuba, and Guatemala. The final round, set for July 2 to August 9, 2026, will determine qualifiers for both the 2027 FIFA Men’s Under-20 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games.

    Jamaica is widely expected to progress from Group B after the round-robin stage. The qualifying matches will be hosted across venues in Costa Rica, Curaçao, and Nicaragua, adding an international dimension to the competition.

  • Prisons club president: Everything was amicably resolved

    Prisons club president: Everything was amicably resolved

    In a dramatic turn of events, Prisons FC, the current leaders of the 2025/26 TT Premier Football League (TTPFL), has reversed its decision to withdraw from the season. The club’s initial announcement to exit the league, made less than 48 hours prior, was attributed to financial challenges and a reduction in subvention funds from the TT Football Association (TTFA). However, after a series of discussions between Prisons FC’s management and the TTFA board, an agreement was reached to continue participation in the league. TTPFL acting CEO Yale Antoine confirmed the decision on November 7, ensuring that Prisons’ scheduled match against Club Sando on November 9 would proceed as planned. Prisons coach Dexter Cyrus expressed relief in a Facebook post, stating that the team had always wanted to continue playing and praised the resolution reached through dialogue. Club president Jude Gordon apologized for the earlier decision, emphasizing that misunderstandings are part of relationships but can be resolved amicably. While the specifics of the agreement remain undisclosed, Gordon assured that Prisons FC is committed to the league for the long term. The team, which has undergone a significant makeover with only one prison officer in the squad, currently leads the table with six points from two games. Their next fixture against Club Sando is set to take place at the Mahaica Sporting Complex in Point Fortin.

  • Man City crush Liverpool to mark Guardiola’s 1,000 match

    Man City crush Liverpool to mark Guardiola’s 1,000 match

    Manchester City delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over Liverpool, marking Pep Guardiola’s 1,000th game in management with a resounding statement. The win at the Etihad Stadium brought City within four points of Premier League leaders Arsenal, solidifying their position as serious title contenders. Erling Haaland, despite missing an early penalty, opened the scoring with a looping header for his 99th Premier League goal. Nico Gonzalez extended the lead with a deflected effort, while Jeremy Doku sealed the win with a stunning strike. Liverpool, the defending champions, now languish in eighth place after losing five of their last six league games. Guardiola praised his team’s performance, emphasizing their belief and determination to challenge Arsenal for the title. The match also highlighted Liverpool’s struggles, as they failed to capitalize on key moments, including a disallowed goal and missed opportunities. Doku’s brilliance on the left flank further underscored City’s dominance, leaving Liverpool with much to reflect on as their season continues to falter.

  • KFC backs TTFA World Cup campaign with $100k sponsorship

    KFC backs TTFA World Cup campaign with $100k sponsorship

    In a significant move to bolster Trinidad and Tobago’s national football team, Prestige Holdings Limited, through its flagship brand KFC, has joined forces with the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA). This partnership aims to support the men’s national team as they face Jamaica on November 13 and Bermuda on November 18 in two critical 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. KFC has contributed TT$100,000 to aid the team’s preparation, covering essential aspects such as training, logistics, and operations at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. This investment underscores KFC’s commitment to sports development and its belief in the transformative power of football to unite and empower communities. Roger Rambharose, Vice President of KFC and Pizza Hut, emphasized the brand’s dedication to nurturing young talent and fostering national pride through sports. TTFA President Kieron Edwards expressed profound gratitude for KFC’s support, highlighting the importance of corporate partnerships in achieving the team’s goals. Head coach Dwight Yorke echoed this sentiment, urging the nation to rally behind the team as they strive to keep their World Cup dreams alive. The TTFA continues to strengthen its ties with corporate stakeholders, encouraging fans to show their support by attending the matches and wearing the national colors proudly.

  • Lenny Wilkens, Basketball Hall of Famer as player and coach, dies

    Lenny Wilkens, Basketball Hall of Famer as player and coach, dies

    LOS ANGELES, United States — The basketball world mourns the loss of Lenny Wilkens, a revered figure in the NBA, who passed away at the age of 88, as confirmed by his family on Sunday. Wilkens, celebrated as both a Hall of Fame player and coach, left an indelible mark on the sport through his remarkable career and contributions.

  • CAPACITY TO COPE

    CAPACITY TO COPE

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which caused widespread devastation in Jamaica nearly two weeks ago, particularly in the island’s western parishes, the question of when to resume sporting activities has ignited a national debate. While some argue that restarting events like the Jamaica Premier League (JPL) could restore a sense of normalcy and hope, others contend it is premature, given the physical and psychological toll on athletes, coaches, and communities. The JPL organizers have adopted a cautious approach, prioritizing the well-being of players and staff before considering a return to competition. Communication disruptions persist across much of the island, and several clubs, including Montego Bay United and Treasure Beach FC, report severe damage to their facilities and personal impacts on players. Beyond logistical challenges, the psychological aftermath of the disaster adds complexity. Dr. André Bateman, a clinical and sports psychologist, highlights the disproportionate impact on the western side of the island, where recovery efforts are more arduous. He emphasizes the importance of sensitivity in resuming sports, noting the psychological divide between those ready to move forward and those still grappling with loss. Athletes, even in less affected areas, may carry emotional burdens, including survivor’s guilt, which can hinder their performance. Bateman stresses the need for open communication and accessible mental health support, urging the Government and sporting authorities to provide resources like group therapy. While sports can serve as a therapeutic outlet for athletes, Bateman warns against using them as a distraction, which may exacerbate trauma. For now, the consensus among organizers leans toward patience and compassion, recognizing the delicate balance between recovery and the desire to return to normalcy.

  • Pleasantville girls begin SSFL ‘Big 5’ title defence

    Pleasantville girls begin SSFL ‘Big 5’ title defence

    Pleasantville Secondary is set to defend their Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) Girls’ ‘Big 5′ title as they face Chaguanas South Secondary in the 2025 quarterfinal. The match will take place at Lewis Street in San Fernando on November 9 at 3 pm. Pleasantville has been a dominant force in the south championship division, winning all six matches, scoring 62 goals, and conceding none. Their impressive run included a 15-0 victory over Moruga Secondary and a 3-0 win against St Stephen’s College in their final championship match on October 23. This season, Pleasantville has already secured the Girls’ Super Cup with a 2-1 triumph over St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain (SJCPoS) in September. Last year, they clinched the Big 5 title by defeating Five Rivers Secondary 3-0 in the final at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva. However, their quest for a national double was thwarted by SJCPoS, who defeated them 5-3 on penalties in the national intercol final. To retain the Big 5 title, Pleasantville may have to overcome SJCPoS again, as the two schools could meet in the semifinals if Pleasantville advances past Chaguanas South. The semifinals are scheduled for November 13, with Signal Hill Secondary facing Five Rivers Secondary in the other semi. The final will be held on November 16.

  • Hillview win again, clinch SSFL premier division spot

    Hillview win again, clinch SSFL premier division spot

    Hillview College has cemented its place in the 2026 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) Premier Division after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Palo Seco Secondary on November 8. The match, held at Hillview’s home ground in Tunapuna, marked the culmination of a stellar season for the east zone champions. With this win, Hillview completed a perfect run in the First Citizens Boys’ “Big 5” playoffs, securing nine points from three consecutive victories. The team had previously triumphed over Presentation College Chaguanas and Mucurapo West Secondary, showcasing their dominance in the championship division. The game against Palo Seco was a tense affair, with Hillview taking the lead in the 40th minute through Ky’Mani Prieto. However, Palo Seco equalized in the 66th minute after Akil Baptiste capitalized on a goalkeeping error. Despite Palo Seco goalkeeper Kristan Woods’ heroic saves, which earned him the MVP award, Hillview’s Jahmarley Ellis sealed the win with an 82nd-minute goal. This loss marked Palo Seco’s second consecutive defeat in the tournament. The Big 5 playoffs will continue on November 12, with Hillview hosting Speyside Secondary and Palo Seco facing Presentation College Chaguanas. Speyside, the Tobago championship division winners, are yet to play a match due to postponements. The top three teams in the Big 5 will advance to the 2026 SSFL Premier Division.

  • Garcia scores for Spartak in Russian Cup quaterfinal win

    Garcia scores for Spartak in Russian Cup quaterfinal win

    Trinidad and Tobago’s star forward Levi Garcia delivered a stellar performance for Spartak Moscow in their 3-1 victory over Lokomotiv Moscow in the first leg of the Russian Cup quarterfinal on November 6. The 27-year-old opened the scoring just four minutes into the match, capitalizing on a rebound after Lokomotiv’s goalkeeper Daniil Veselov initially saved his header. Garcia’s quick reflexes set the tone for Spartak’s dominant display. The Trinidadian was also involved in Spartak’s second goal in the 49th minute, albeit unintentionally, as a shot from Brazilian teammate Marquinhos Costa deflected off him and Lokomotiv defender Lucas Fasson before finding the net. Costa added a third goal with a clever flick at the near post, showcasing Spartak’s attacking prowess. Lokomotiv managed to pull one back in the 67th minute through Aleksey Batrakov, but their hopes of a comeback were dashed when Batrakov’s penalty was saved by Spartak’s goalkeeper Ilya Pomazun in the 80th minute. The return leg is scheduled for November 26. Meanwhile, Garcia, who has scored six goals in 16 matches this season, is expected to play a pivotal role in Trinidad and Tobago’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Jamaica and Bermuda on November 13 and 18, respectively. His recent form bodes well for coach Dwight Yorke’s squad as they aim to secure crucial victories in Mucurapo.

  • A rising King — Jakeem draws on brotherly inspiration to shine on basketball courts

    A rising King — Jakeem draws on brotherly inspiration to shine on basketball courts

    From the tender age of two, Jakeem King’s passion for basketball was ignited by witnessing his uncle, Kushiah King, execute a jaw-dropping slam dunk. Now, at just 12 years old, Jakeem is carving out his own legacy on the hard courts of Trinidad. A Form One student at Fatima College, he has already secured a spot on the school’s under-17 team for the prestigious RBC Royal Slam College Basketball competition.