GUADALAJARA:
Jamaica defeated New Caledonia 1-0 of their inter-confederation playoff semi-final in Guadalajara on Thursday to maintain alive their hopes of a primary World Cup look since 1998.
Jamaica will subsequent face DR Congo on Tuesday for a spot in Group Ok on the June 11 to July 19 World Cup in North America alongside Colombia, Portugal and Uzbekistan, whereas New Caledonia’s hunt for his or her first finals berth got here to an finish.
French territory New Caledonia, who misplaced out to Oceania rivals New Zealand for an automated spot on the World Cup, got here into the match ranked one hundred and fiftieth on the earth and fielded a workforce of part-timers however nonetheless gave the Jamaicans a scare.
“It was a really powerful sport,” Jamaica goalkeeper and captain Andre Blake stated.
“New Caledonia is a extremely good workforce. They will play in case you give them time and house. We did a very good job defending. We may have scored a few extra targets, however we’re pleased with the win.”
Jamaica’s Bailey Cadamarteri scored the one purpose in the 18th minute, changing from shut vary after New Caledonia keeper parried Ronaldo Webster’s free kick into his path.
Georges Gope-Fenepej had a golden alternative to equalise early within the second half however couldn’t join with a cross in entrance of purpose.
New Caledonia keeper Rocky Nyikeine made an important intervention to halt Webster’s harmful run contained in the field and forestall Jamaica from doubling their lead.
The gang bought behind New Caledonia as they pushed for a late equalizer however they couldn’t break by and Jamaica closed out the win.
“I assumed we had been aggressive, urgent and attempting to win again the ball as a lot as attainable,” Jamaica head coach Rudolph Speid stated.
