McClaren, Latibeaudiere take heart from draw against Honduras but stress need for improvement in hunt for future success

By October 15, 2024
Reggae Boy Joel Latibeaudiere (right) challenges Jorge Benguche of Honduras for possession. Reggae Boy Joel Latibeaudiere (right) challenges Jorge Benguche of Honduras for possession. Concacaf Media

It may not have been the most polished performance by the Reggae Boyz in their goalless Concacaf Nations League Group B stalemate against Honduras, but Reggae Boyz Head coach Steve McClaren and midfielder Joel Latibeaudiere were still full of praise for his team.

For McClaren, the result—though a disappointing one for many of the fans that turned out at the National Stadium on Monday night—held immense significance as it not only secured Jamaica’s place in the quarterfinals of the tournament but also guaranteed them a spot in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup.

The Boyz, who entered the contest needing only a point to progress, topped the League A group with eight points, with second-placed Honduras (seven points) also progressing.

Still, the Englishman, while praising his team’s determination, acknowledged that the performance wasn’t without its challenges.