The Jamaica Under-17 Reggae Boyz delivered a stirring performance to advance to the quarter-finals of the Torneo de Sol in Mexico, overcoming a turbulent start with a commanding 3-1 victory over Selección Liga Premier on Wednesday.
Competing in the fiercely contested Group 3, Jamaica ended the group stage tied with all other teams on six points. A slender plus-one goal difference secured the Boyz a spot in the quarter-finals, narrowly edging out Selección Norte, who recorded six goals for and against.
Their second-place finish came behind Liga Premier, who topped the group with a superior plus-three goal difference. It was a nail-biting conclusion, but Jamaica’s grit and determination paid off.
Seymour Reid’s second-half brilliance
The hero of the hour was Seymour Reid, whose electrifying second-half hat trick propelled the young Boyz to victory against Liga Premier. His clinical finishing displayed maturity and composure, earning Jamaica a quarter-final showdown against Selección Metropolitana. The decisive clash is scheduled for Thursday at 1:20 p.m.
Joining Jamaica in the quarter-finals are regional heavyweights Mexico and Panama, alongside Norte, Liga Top, Occidente, and Guatemala. Jamaica’s journey began with a thrilling 3-2 win over Bajío before suffering a 2-0 defeat to Norte.
Meanwhile, Norte secured their spot in the next stage with a dramatic 4-3 triumph over Bajío, highlighting the tightly matched competition in Group 3.
Building momentum for World Cup Qualifiers
The Torneo de Sol serves as an invaluable warm-up for the Reggae Boyz as they prepare for the CONCACAF Under-17 World Cup qualifiers. The tournament not only tests their mettle against top-tier competition but also offers a chance to refine strategies ahead of high-stakes international play.
As the young Boyz move forward, their resilience and teamwork will be pivotal in navigating the challenges of the quarter-finals and beyond.
