Young Reggae Boyz look forward to Portugal Test

Reggae Boyz Under-15 coach Lewin Purser says the entire camp is excited, rather than overawed, after being drawn against Portugal in their Tier B round-of-32 match at the FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Festival in Baku, Azerbaijan, today at 3:45 a.m. local time.

Purser said the team has focused primarily on mental preparation ahead of the contest and will enter the match without fear, believing they have what it takes to beat the Portuguese and advance to the next round.

“We are happy for the draw because we need the exposure. So the players are excited about the whole thing. We are going to play another European side for the first time and we are all excited to hear about this one.

“We are getting the guys mentally prepared and on track. We are not thinking about the past, the defeat (to Czechia) yesterday (Monday). So we are moving full speed into tomorrow’s (today’s) game.”

As part of that preparation, the young Boyz spent time exploring the city of Baku, an activity Purser said formed an important part of their recovery process.

“We did a mental thing with them today. We took them out on the street. We went to the mall and into the town to just breeze out and relax and get them back in a frame of mind.

“This actually formed a part of our recovery. We took them away from the football field for the mental side, because that is important.

“We took them to get them to know the surroundings a little bit more. So, instead of hearing about the place, they got to see it for themselves. All the historic sites.”

Nevertheless, the technical staff is under no illusion about the strength of the team standing between Jamaica and a place in the next round, though Purser said they remain confident of progressing if they improve their defensive discipline.

“We know of their capabilities. They are a formidable team. We expect a great match from them.

“We are not going to be afraid of them. We are going to be up in their faces. We are going to be brave to really compete at our best,” he said.

“We are trying to get the guys to enjoy what they do and not to be afraid of any opponent, but try to match them in every department.

“We know of them being a technical team and they like to display their skills. So we are prepared for that and we want to bring our football to the fore also.

“Our plan is to play the game as it comes, remain disciplined and compact throughout, and take our opportunities when they come.”

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com