Jamaican delegation named for EUFA U18 Friendship Tournament in Turkey

Jamaica has unveiled its delegation for the upcoming UEFA U18 Friendship Tournament scheduled to take place in Turkey, with matches set to commence this weekend.

The delegation, comprising talented young footballers and experienced staff members, will depart on April 19 and return on May 1.

The team roster includes players representing various local clubs such as Portmore United FC, Reno FC, and Cavalier SC, among others. The coaching staff, led by Head Coach Lenworth Hyde and supported by Assistant Coach Rodolph Austin and Goalkeeping Coach Andrew Sewell, is well-equipped to guide the young talents through the tournament.

Jamaica's U18 team is slated to face formidable opponents in their group stage matches, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Mali. The tournament format will also feature cross-zone games, providing additional opportunities for the players to showcase their skills against diverse opposition.

Eight national teams from five confederations

The UEFA Friendship Tournament aims to foster international football experiences for young players from different confederations. This pilot edition will bring together eight national teams from five confederations, providing a platform for technical staff and players to grow both on and off the pitch.

The participating teams will be divided into two groups, with Jamaica placed in Group A alongside Mali, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. This arrangement promises exciting matchups and opportunities for cultural exchange and learning among the players.

Group B comprises Ecuador, Guatemala, Morocco and Slovakia.

Jamaica will open their campaign against Saudi Arabia on April 22, followed by Turkey on April 24, before closing out against Mali three days later.

Primed to make a strong impression

Jamaica's U18 football squad is primed to make a strong impression at the UEFA Friendship Tournament, representing the nation's talent and potential on the global stage.

Team: Jordane McDowell (Portmore United FC), Javin Williams (Reno FC), Taywane Lynch (Mt. Pleasant FC), O’Neil Headley (Chapelton Maroon), Dunsting Cohen (Vere United FC), Jloyd Smith (Cavalier SC), Daniel Clarke (Unattached), Nashon Bolt (Arnett Gardens FC), Justin McPherson (Unattached), Nashardo Gibbs (Real Mona), Dyllan John (Unattached), Orane Watson (Chapelton Maroon), Matthew Ellis (Cavalier SC), Ja-Son Whyte (Humble Lion (Humble Lion FC), Ron Webb (FC Manchester), Deandre Gallimore (Chapelton Munroon), Alex James (Real Mona), Dantae Escoffrey (Petersfield FC), Odane Wilberforce (Cavalier SC), Keyanni Jackson.

The technical staff also includes Tyrese Palmer (equipment manager), Karen Clarke –Lumsden,, manager, Edmund Regis, team doctor, Wendell Downswell (technical director), Gregory Daley (head of delegation).