Jamaica’s senior Reggae Girlz head coach Hubert Busby says he expects to have all his overseas-based players, including star striker Khadija Shaw, available for the crucial Concacaf Women’s Championship match against Costa Rica on November 27.

The winner-takes-all clash in Texas will decide which team books an automatic spot at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. November is not a full FIFA window, raising concerns about club releases, but Busby is confident.

“The qualifiers in November are official. Therefore, unless players are injured, they will be released for international duty,” Busby told the Jamaica Observer.

“The recently concluded Asian Cup is an indication of that. We expect all our players to be available for selection,” he further said.

Costa Rica defeated Jamaica 2-1 when the teams last met in 2022. But Busby dismissed the idea of using that match as a blueprint.

“There is nothing to take away from that game in 2022, other than we know that Costa Rica is a formidable opponent and one of the best teams in the region. The most important factor we can consider now is preparation, how to get ready for November 27th,” Busby said.

With a World Cup berth on the line, Busby said the message to his squad is simple: Control what you can control.

“There is nothing that needs to be said. The team knows the objectives. We are within reach. Therefore, it’s important to be present and focus on the controllables now. Do the work, prepare, remain focused and have belief,” he explained.

The coach admitted frustration that the team has not always received the recognition it deserves, but believes support is growing.

“The team, especially the players, have not received the recognition it deserves. That said, I believe this is changing,” Busby said.

“The turnout and support we received over the last two home matches were fantastic, and the team really felt it on the day. May that support continue,” he added.

Busby said the focus remains on improvement, not hype.

“Prior to the announcement, everyone was strictly focused on the last two games, even though we knew it would be Costa Rica. I’m sure we will have further discussions the next time we are together. With that said, we really want to focus on areas we can improve,” Busby noted.

Busby acknowledged the magnitude of the game but stressed the need for composure.

“It’s a huge game. We understand the significance. However, as the saying goes, we must concentrate on the game and not the occasion. We’re encouraged by the fact that six million people worldwide are supporting and driving us forward,” he said.

Despite the pressure, Busby said belief inside the camp is high.

“We are a confident and focused group,” he said.

Reggae Girl Atlanta Primus (left) battles for the ball with Guyana’s Jenea Knight during the Concacaf Women’s Qualifier Group B encounter at the National Stadium on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Guyana’s goalkeeper Arden La-Rose saves a shot from Jamaica Reggae Girl Paige Bailey-Gayle during their Group B encounter in the Concacaf Women’s Qualifiers at the National Stadium on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

Reggae Girl Khadija Shaw beats Guyana’s Annalisa Vincent to the ball and heads home Jamaica’s opening goal in the Concacaf Women’s Qualifiers at the National Stadium on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)