Bajan ballers bound for historic FIFA stage

Barbados is preparing for a historic moment on the international football stage, with the national Under-15 squad already hard at work ahead of its participation in the inaugural U15 FIFA World Cup and Festival in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Newly appointed Barbados Football Association Technical Director Philip Marin confirmed the preparations on Thursday, revealing that the Tridents will be among the teams competing in the October 24 to 30 tournament.

Speaking to Barbados TODAY following his official presentation to the media, Marin said the tournament will feature almost 1 000 matches, with games played in an 8v8 format.

“FIFA has invited all 211 member associations to be part of the U15 World Cup and so far 191 member associations have accepted the invitation.

“There will be 31 groups of six teams and one group of five teams that will give us 191 countries,” he explained.

Barbados has been allocated a slot in Group E, which is headed by global powerhouse Spain. According to Marin, despite Spain being ranked number one, that clash will provide good exposure for the Barbadian team, because millions of people will be able to see them play. Group E also includes Chile, Congo, Kuwait and Tajikistan.

“So in the group we are already at a disadvantage, but we will continue to work harder.

“We have probably about four more weeks before the tournament and we’ll continue to work on our tactical game, how we want to attack, defend and be organised,” said Marin who added, “Because of the number of countries participating in the tournament, it will be an 8v8 competition and each half will be of 20 minutes duration with a five minute break.

“Our head coach is Stefan Stephan King, who is very capable. I have been guiding him to see how we can prepare for this tournament.”

Also weighing in on the landmark tournament, FIFA Chief of Global Football Development Arsène Wenger highlighted its transformative potential in a FIFA release on Thursday. 

“Talent exists everywhere, but young players do not always have the same opportunities to test themselves internationally. 

“This tournament is about providing them with that opportunity. By bringing teams from across the world together at U-15 level, we can give players meaningful matches, expose them to different styles and football cultures, and help them learn and develop through competition.”

(KH)