MIAMI, Florida -- Barbados Captain Rashad Jules says competing in the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup Prelims will help to put his country on football’s global map.
With the buzz and media attention that will mimic the fanfare and atmosphere of the Group Stage, Jules’ Barbados will have the spotlight when they take on Bermuda on July 2 at the DRK PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
Both nations have a lot to look forward to in the Prelims: Barbados is aiming for its first tournament, while Bermuda is looking to qualify for a second consecutive time.
Understandably, Jules and his teammates will be famished for their first taste of the Gold Cup pie. Therefore, the stakes are high on all fronts.
“This is the perfect opportunity to be recognized both as a nation, and also to showcase the ability that our nation possesses” Jules told Concacaf.com in an exclusive interview.
He believes that success for Head Coach Russell Latapy’s side will leave a legacy worthy of respect and a source of inspiration for forthcoming generations.
“We recognize the opportunity at hand and we know how important it is, not only for us currently playing, but for the future players and football in Barbados,” Jules said.
The midfielder, who plies his trade professionally with Finnish club Kemi Kings, notes that if the team is to progress from the Prelims to the Group Stage, then the focus must be on the learning process.
“We will continue to work on the way we want to play, with the intentions of improving on the areas that requires improvement” Jules said.
Barbados vice-captain Hadan Holligan agrees with his skipper in that playing at any level in the new Gold Cup format is a priceless “experience” and competitive challenge, with the latter requiring the team to reach into the depths of its ability to be successful.
“I agree it would be a wonderful experience, but going forward we would know we have to come stronger and dig deeper.
“And yes, it serves the development of the game and gives everyone a fair chance to make a name for themselves” noted Holligan, who prefers to be deployed as an attacking midfielder.
Holligan believes that if each player fulfills his role, then the team’s chances of success will multiply.
“I’m banking on every single player to do their part. Once that happens, we have a greater chance” Holligan stated.
In the First round of Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers for Qatar 2022, Barbados lost 1-0 to Panama, defeated Anguilla 1-0 and drew 1-1 with Dominican Republic and Dominica.
Holligan’s takeaway was that it was a mixed bag for his country, but at the same time a good learning experience.
“We could have done better, but it was a good performance from the team [nonetheless]. The four games helped us a lot and also showed us the areas where we need to improve on” concluded Holligan.
