Caribbean Nation Ready to Surprise the Host Nation of the Gold Cup
As the United States prepares for its Gold Cup opener against Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday at PayPal Park in California, the "Soca Warriors," as they're nicknamed, have confidence despite being clear underdogs.
Trinidad just secured qualification for the final round of the 2026 World Cup qualifying, boosting morale heading into this clash. Led by new coach Dwight Yorke, the former Manchester United striker who's demanding higher standards from his squad, Trinidad and Tobago believes they can exploit America's recent struggles.
While the U.S. has lost four straight matches, including Tuesday's humiliating 4-0 defeat to Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago midfielder Ajani Fortune expressed complete confidence his team can "get a result" against CONCACAF's highest-ranked nation. The 22-year-old Atlanta United player has been finding his rhythm internationally, recently scoring in a 6-2 victory over St. Kitts and Nevis.
Trinidad and Tobago's recent form has been mixed, losing three of their last four matches while conceding 11 goals. However, they've shown resilience in the Gold Cup competition, remaining unbeaten in their previous two tournament openers without allowing a goal. Historically, when the Soca Warriors score first in Gold Cup group play, they rarely lose.
The team will be without injured midfielder Josiah Trimmingham, but veteran defender Joevin Jones is approaching his 100th international appearance. Striker Levi Garcia, who has 10 international goals, provides the main attacking threat.
This marks Trinidad and Tobago's fourth consecutive Gold Cup appearance, though they haven't advanced from the group stage since 2015. Their last victory over the United States came in the 2023 Nations League, proving they can trouble American sides when conditions align.
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