Little hope for young Reggae Boyz

Gordon Williams, Gleaner Writer

MONTERREY, Mexico:

Jamaica will today attempt a monumental step towards making history when they tackle France in their final group game at the 2011 FIFA Under-17 World Cup.

The young Reggae Boyz will enter the Estadio Universitario here knowing they have to press for victory from the 3 p.m. kick-off (local and Jamaica time), as only a convincing win can sustain Jamaica's slim hopes of advancing to the tournament's Round of 16.

Even if today's mission is accomplished, the Boyz will still have to await the completion of group play in the 24-team tournament this weekend to know if they have survived the cut. The top two teams in each of the six groups will advance, followed by four best third-place teams.

No points yet

So far, Jamaica have no points after losses to Japan (1-0) and Argentina (2-1). Japan are tied on four points with France, but sit second in Group B on goal difference. Argentina, who have three points in third, will play Japan in Morelia at the same time Jamaica square off against France.

If all the combinations fall in place - the Boyz win and get favourable results elsewhere - it would be the first time that Jamaica would advance beyond the group stage of a FIFA global tournament in four tries (1998 seniors, 1999 and 2011 U-17 and 2001 U-20).

Coach Wendell Downswell would like to at least put on a good show for the fans, especially the Mexicans, who have greeted the Boyz warmly since their arrival here.

"The chance is there (to advance)," said Downswell, "but what we would like to do is end on a positive note ... Our intention is to play entertaining and attacking football."

Despite a spirited training session yesterday morning, Jamaica will take on France without one of their most influential forces, while another is doubtful. Captain Omar Holness is also hoping to be fit for France after suffering a leg injury. But utility player Alvas Powell is serving a one-match suspension after receiving a caution in each of the first two games. Powell was a key component in Jamaica's revamped line-up Tuesday against Argentina, adding offensive bite following a weak show in attack against Japan last Saturday.

"He's one of our outstanding players throughout the tournament," Downswell said of Powell " ... He is a person with a lion heart. So he'll be missed."

But while Downswell admitted Powell's loss is a huge blow, the 16-year-old from Paul Bogle High was even more distraught his World Cup dream may have ended abruptly.

"I know I was gonna miss the next match and the last World Cup match for me," Powell said Wednesday. " ... I feel very, very down and disappointed."

France appeared the early boss of Group B after overwhelming Argentina 3-0. Against them, Downswell plans to replace Powell with Romario Jones in central midfield. Richard Trench is expected to make his World Cup debut, replacing Nico Campbell in goal. More playing time could also come for Cardel Benbow and forward Anthony Walker, as both have provided spark off the bench.

Crank things up

Jamaica will need to crank it up a notch to cope with the French, who tormented Argentina with speedy, skilful attackers and solid, disciplined defence. But in France's second game, Japan exposed the Europeans, outnumbering them in midfield and taking charge of ball possession. That nullified France's potent attack. Japan also pressured France's defence, unmasking chinks in their armour. France struggled to keep Japan at bay, eventually conceding a penalty and a 1-1 draw after taking the early lead. After Jamaica's and his team's performance against Japan, France coach Patrick Gonfalone was not ready to underestimate the Boyz.

"Jamaica, like us, have suffered a lot against Japan," Gonfalone said.

Jamaica must show much better finishing in front of goal to have any chance.

"If we are able to score the opportunities we may create, that would put us in the right position as it relates to putting on a grand performance," said Downswell.

Even if Jamaica get everything right, it might not be enough against a highly talented French team. The French feature players like Abdallah Yaisien, Sebastien Haller and captain Raphael Calvet who, barring anything unfortunate, are bound to be heard from again on bigger stages in the future. However, the Boyz are planning to make their impact now.

"Our intention is to give it our best shot," said Downswell.

Jamaica have no choice.