Reggae Girlz to play Panama in pair of friendlies
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In preparation for the Concacaf W Championship and their bid for a third World Cup appearance, the Reggae Girlz will take on Panama in two international friendlies set for June 5 and June 8 in Panama City.
The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) confirmed the fixtures yesterday in a press release.
JFF President Michael Ricketts said both games will be important to the team’s preparations as they look to secure a spot at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Jamaica are hunting their third consecutive appearance following their debut in 2019 and their second appearance in 2023.
“We are delighted to confirm these games for our senior women’s national team ahead of the qualifiers in the United States in November,” Ricketts said
“We feel they will be key for us ahead of the crucial encounter against Costa Rica on November 27 as we aim to secure qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.”
The Girlz have faced Panama several times over the past few years and hold a positive record against their Central American opponents.
Jamaica defeated Panama on penalties in the 2018 Concacaf Women’s Championship to secure their first-ever appearance at the 2019 World Cup.
Since then, Jamaica played Panama four more times, with Jamaica claiming two wins, one draw and a loss.
One of those wins came at the 2023 World Cup where Jamaica defeated Panama 1-0 through a goal from defender Allyson Swaby.
The upcoming fixtures will be used as preparations for both teams as Panama will also compete in the W Championships.
Jamaica will face Costa Rica in the quarterfinals, and Panama will take on Canada, knowing a win for either team will see them qualify for the 2027 World Cup.
The W Championship will also serve as the qualifying tournament for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Should Jamaica fail to win their quarterfinal match against Costa Rica, they will have another chance at qualifying through their Play-In, where they will have a shot to advance to the FIFA Intercontinental Play-Offs.
The W Championship is set to be held in the United States and is scheduled to run from November 27 through to December 2.