Golden Jaguars begin preparations in quest for Gold Cup
– to play two international friendlies
DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, May 21, 2019
By Isaiah Braithwaite
The Guyana Golden Jaguars are set to begin preparations for their historic participation in the CONCACAF Gold Cup which will be played from June 15.
The preparation camp starts on June 1, in Bermuda. Guyana will then play fellow Gold Cup debutants Bermuda on June 6 in an international friendly. They will travel to Costa Rica to continue their camp over the period June 9 to 13 and play their second friendly against Haiti on June 11.
The Golden Jaguars team that defeated Belize to seal their Gold Cup spot.
The games will be used to build momentum heading to St. Paul, Minnesota, USA, for their opening game of the Gold Cup on June 18 at the Allianz Field against defending champions USA.
According to a release from the Guyana Football Federation, Head Coach of the Golden Jaguars, Michael Johnson, said: “We look forward to working with the squad over the coming days and weeks as we aim to build on the success of our qualification campaign.”
In addition, Johnson encouraged citizens and players alike, to throw their support behind the final squad.
“The selection process was not easy, and I understand there will be disappointment amongst some players; however, I’m encouraging players, fans and the media to get behind the squad as we aim to do the people of Guyana proud. Wherever you are in the world, we the staff and players are asking you to get behind the team and enjoy this historical moment. Your country needs you!”
The Golden Jaguars were drawn in Group D of the 16-team tournament. The group includes the USA, Panama, and Trinidad and Tobago. After going up against the USA, they will take on Panama on June 22 at the First Energy Stadium followed by Trinidad and Tobago, on June 26 at the Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas.
Image: Kawise Wishart.