KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), in seeking to set the record straight regarding the controversy surrounding the Reggae Girlz’ funding for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, says the discussion “has taken away the focus from the celebration around this historic achievement.”

In a statement on Friday, the JFF said it recognises another historic achievement of the Reggae Girlz in being the first Caribbean team to qualify for the second round in a World Cup and would like to clarify any misconceptions with the hope that supporters can focus on the achievement.

The JFF outlined that funding was provided by FIFA, the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf), the Government of Jamaica, Adidas, Bob Marley Foundation, Corporate Jamaica sponsors and the Reggae Girlz Foundation.

“The JFF would like to thank these sponsors as without their assistance, the Girlz and the other national teams would not be able to prepare or participate in any competition, including the World Cup,” the JFF noted, adding that the Federation welcomes additional sponsors and support to contribute to the continued development of all the national football teams.

The statement comes on the heels of captain Khadija Shaw, in a post-match interview with Arsenal legend Ian Wright, stating that the team “had to go on GoFundMe to get money to be here.”

Additionally, goalkeeper Rebecca Spencer said Jamaica’s historic run into the knockout stages will put pressure on football bosses at home to take the women’s team seriously.

“Obviously we fight a constant battle,” said the London-born Spencer, saying the players felt they had “a point to prove. The better we do, the more pressure it creates (on the Jamaica federation),” Spencer expressed.

READ: Time to take us seriously, says Jamaica’s World Cup goalkeeper Spencer

Meanwhile, Minister of Sports, Olivia Grange said she has spoken with Shaw for clarity on the controversy regarding the team’s funding, cautioning her of how social media activities may shape the perception of the country and its affairs.

“I had a good talk this morning with Bunny Shaw and I got some clarification,” Grange said while speaking at a Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association press event on Wednesday afternoon.

“The impression that’s being given is that they struggled and they’re on their own and they got where they got to and a GoFundMe account was set up to help,” she added.

READ: Grange says Gov’t committed to help ease tensions between Girlz and JFF

The JFF says it welcomes anyone who wants to contribute to the development of the national football teams, which have done well and made Jamaica proud.

“We look forward to working with these organisations and sponsors in continuing to fulfil the dreams of many youngsters, who have realised their dreams through football, and thank our supporters,” the statement read.