Jamaica will take on Guatemala in their opening match of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, with both teams arriving in sharply contrasting form. Under head coach Steve McClaren, the Reggae Boyz are unbeaten this year and continue to deliver consistent, high-level performances. Guatemala, on the other hand, are still trying to regain confidence after a tough defeat to the Jamaican national team in their most recent outing.
Despite Guatemala not being in peak form, head coach Luis Tena has skillfully guided them team into the third round of the World Cup qualifiers, securing second place in Group E. Nonetheless, the team has faced significant defensive struggles, raising concerns about a section previously regarded as one of their strongest.
With top-tier players like Demarai Gray and Leon Bailey, Jamaica enter the competition as one of the top national teams in Concacaf. Many consider them underdogs, yet their lineup features players with the skill to compete against any national squad. Moreover, their exceptional physical conditioning could provide a crucial advantage in the Gold Cup.
Jamaica potential lineup vs Guatemala
Building on their recent victory against Guatemala, head coach Steve McClaren has little reason to alter his starting lineup. The squad has no injuries or suspensions, allowing the Reggae Boyz to aim high. With stars like Leon Bailey and Demarai Gray leading the offense, Jamaica set their sight on pursuing their first title in the competition’s history.
Leon Bailey of Jamaica
With this strategy in mind, Jamaica could field the following team: Andre Blake; Joel Latibeaudiere, Damion Lowe, Mason Holgate, Amari Bell; Jon Russell, Isaac Hayden; Renaldo Cephas, Demarai Gray, Leon Bailey; Warner Brown.
see also
Where to watch Jamaica vs Guatemala live in the USA: CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers
Guatemala potential lineup vs Jamaica
Guatemala’s coach Luis Tena will have some challenges to face Jamaica in the Gold Cup since Chema Rosales will miss the game due to a lingering muscle injury, yet he may return against Panama. Tena, reflecting on the previous defeat to the Reggae Boyz, is likely to make changes in their offense, introducing young talent like Matthew Evans.
Considering the above, Guatemala could field the following team to face Jamaica: Nicholas Hagen; Jose Morales, Jose Pinto, Jose Ardon, Carlos Aguilar; Oscar Castellanos, Rodrigo Saravia; Oscar Santis, Olger Escobar, Rudy Muñoz; Rubio Rubin.
