GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala — Pride will be at stake when Jamaica’s Under-20 female footballers tackle Caribbean neighbours Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) in their final CONCACAF World Cup qualifying Group B encounter today at the Estadio Cemtentos Progresso here. Game time 3:00 pm (4:00 Jamaica time).

Both teams are winless and out of contention for a semi-final spot, and only bragging rights and a useless third spot finish are left for the taking.

Jamaica lost 0-6 and 0-2 to the USA and Mexico in that order, while T&T lost 1-2 and 0-4 to Mexico and the USA, respectively. Based on goal difference, if the game ends in a draw, the Soca Warriors would finish ahead of the Reggae Girlz.

Head coach Vin Blaine said Jamaica have to win as pride is at stake. “We can’t go home bottom of the table. We have to get this one for pride and the Jamaican people,” said Blaine.

Without a doubt, Blaine will have a difficult job trying to motivate his charges.

“I saw a little dip in going to training this morning (Sunday), but as soon as they got on the field they lifted their spirits,” he noted.

“Traditionally when we play against Trinidad, they would lift their games and I know Trinidad will lift theirs. We are both in the same position and want to leave with a win,” he added.

Both teams drew 1-1 in the final Caribbean Football Union (CFU) game in Trinidad in November and T&T coach Jamal Shabazz, has vowed to beat Jamaica.

“Whenever we play Jamaica in sports whether it is football, cricket or tennis, it is always going to be competitive because we are neighbours and this is the nature,” said Shabazz.

“We want to give the Guatemalan public a chance to see the intense way we play each other and the free style.. it’s about who wants it more on the day,” he noted.

Blaine, meantime, has made four changes to Jamaica’s starting line-up, bringing in Jamilia Campbell-Henny for her first game of the championship. The US-based midfielder will replace Monique Pryce.

Three players which will be playing in the CONCACAF Under-17 qualifiers will also start. Shanise Foster returns to the right back position ahead of Sushana Dobson, the skilful Trudy Carter gets the nod ahead of Canadian-based Cathryn Rogers and Shenika Williams replaces Teashian Thomas up front.

Defender Lia Blake has a grade one groin injury, while striker Semone Honeygan is nursing a thigh injury, but both are expected to play.