As Jamaica’s Under-17 women’s football team gear up for the 2026 Concacaf Women’s Under-17 Qualifiers, head coach Marlon Hylton is optimistic about their chances.

Hylton said that the team, drawn in Group D with Honduras, Guyana, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and host Aruba, is well-focused on advancing to the next stage.

“We approach this group with confidence but also with respect for every opponent. On paper, we believe we have the quality, depth, and organisation to compete strongly and progress, but football is never won on paper,” Hylton told the Jamaica Observer.

“Our focus is on controlling what we can, our preparation, our performance, and our mindset. If we play to our identity, stay disciplined, and execute our game plan, we believe we are in a very strong position to advance.”

After the round-robin group stage play in Round One, the six group winners and the two best second-place finishers will advance to the final round.

The 12 participating teams in the final round will compete for four slots to represent Concacaf at the global competition, set to take place in Morocco between October and November.

The young Reggae Girlz will open their campaign tomorrow against Guyana at the Stadion Guillermo Prosperio Trinidad in Oranjestad at 1:00 pm Jamaica time.

Hylton said that the team’s strategy for this game is to be disciplined, organised, and assertive.

“The first game is always important because it sets the tone for the tournament, so we are emphasising focus, composure, and execution,” Hylton said.

He mentioned the team’s work ethic, tactical understanding, and unity as key strengths, but also acknowledged areas for improvement.

“The players are disciplined, coachable, and committed to representing Jamaica with pride. Like any developing team, there are areas we continue to improve on,” he said.

With a structured training regimen and friendly matches simulating tournament pressure, Hylton said the team is sharpening its skills and building confidence.

“Our preparation has been structured and detailed,” he said. “Friendly matches and scenario-based training have helped simulate tournament pressure. This final phase has been about sharpening details, maintaining fitness, and building confidence.

“Strong performances build belief, confidence, and momentum. If the team executes what we have worked on, staying organised, playing with discipline, they will put themselves in a strong position to progress.”

Jamaica will next play Aruba on January 27; Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on January 29, and Honduras on February 2. All matches will be played in Oranjestad.