Jamaica vs Guatemala

Jamaica host Guatemala in a decisive Group E encounter in the CONCACAF second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. With both teams having already secured their place in the third and final round, this match serves as a battle for group supremacy and valuable momentum heading into the critical next phase.

The Reggae Boyz come into this clash fresh off a narrow 1-0 win over the British Virgin Islands, sealed by Warner Brown’s early strike. That result extended their perfect record in the second round, adding to earlier victories over the Dominican Republic (1-0) and Dominica (3-2).

Despite their winning run, Jamaica sit second in Group E due to goal difference, trailing Guatemala who have scored more prolifically. Steve McClaren, who took charge in July 2024, has guided the team to seven wins in 13 matches, losing just two. His tenure has brought increased stability, but questions remain about the team’s attacking fluidity—highlighted by their modest goal tally and conversion rate despite creating numerous chances.

With the Gold Cup looming, a statement win against Guatemala could provide a significant psychological boost. Their last World Cup qualifying meetings in 2022 saw both teams win their home fixtures 2-1—a pattern McClaren will hope continues in Kingston.

Luis Fernando Tena’s Guatemala side have also swept their way through Group E, collecting nine points from nine and showcasing their attacking prowess with a 4-2 win over the Dominican Republic in their last outing. Oscar Santis netted a brilliant hat-trick, supported by a goal from Nicolas Samayoa.

Guatemala have scored eight more goals than Jamaica in the group stage, underscoring their offensive efficiency and clinical edge in front of goal. Tena’s men are chasing their first-ever World Cup appearance, and with FIFA's expansion to a 48-team tournament, the door is more open than ever—but topping the next round or succeeding in the inter-confederation play-offs remains essential.

This matchup offers Los Chapines a golden opportunity to assert regional dominance before facing Jamaica again in the upcoming 2025 Gold Cup, where both sides are grouped with Panama and Guadeloupe.

Though qualification to the third round is secured, neither side will take this lightly. Group winners gain a psychological edge and possibly a more favorable path in the final qualifying phase. For Jamaica, it’s about maintaining their home record and continuing McClaren’s rebuild. For Guatemala, it’s a chance to flex their scoring muscles and reinforce their World Cup credentials.