Jamaica’s Allyson Swaby celebrates with her teammates after scoring the opening goal in the Women’s World Cup Group F soccer match between Panama and Jamaica in Perth, Australia, on July 29, 2023 (AP Photo/Gary Day).
MELBOURNE, Australia – Just four months ago, Jamaica’s soccer players expressed their disappointment at the lack of support from their federation, which left them ill-prepared for the Women’s World Cup. They were deprived of practice time and fair compensation. In order to cover their travel expenses to Australia, they turned to crowdfunding and have successfully raised nearly $100,000. Now, they stand just one win or draw away from advancing to the knockout round for the first time.
Ranked 43rd, Jamaica faces off against the 8th ranked Brazil in the final match of the group stage on Wednesday. “We are always striving to make it to the second round,” said Jamaica coach Lorne Donaldson. “The players are enjoying their time in Australia, they like it here. They even had the chance to see some kangaroos. So, we want to extend our stay a bit longer.”
The return of their top scorer, Khadija “Bunny” Shaw, is expected to provide a boost for Jamaica against Brazil. Shaw missed the 1-0 victory over Panama due to a red card received in the opening 0-0 draw against France. Midfielder Peyton McNamara speaks highly of Shaw, describing her as a player they all look up to. “She sets the standard in training and in games,” McNamara said.
Shaw’s absence didn’t deter the Reggae Girlz from securing their first Women’s World Cup victory against Panama, making them the first Caribbean team to achieve this milestone. Jamaica’s defense has been crucial in their success so far. Goalkeeper Becky Spencer became the first Jamaican goalkeeper to achieve two clean sheets in a World Cup. Defender Deneisha Blackwood was awarded player of the match against France.
“We are fully aware that we are considered underdogs coming into the World Cup,” Donaldson acknowledged. “But this is not new to us.”
In their second appearance in the Women’s World Cup, Jamaica has the opportunity to upset one of the perennial top teams. Brazil, who suffered a 2-1 loss to France, needs a win to secure their place in the knockout round for the seventh consecutive time. “Brazil is a powerhouse,” Donaldson said. “We need to match them step for step. They are a very skillful team and we know they will bring everything they have. So, we must be ready.”
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