Tridents prepare for Concacaf Nations League clash against Bermuda

Barbados face a crucial test of their Concacaf Nations League ambitions when they meet Bermuda in a back-to-back showdown from Friday, with the Bajan Tridents aiming to strengthen their hold on top spot in League B, Group B.

The first match will be played on Friday, October 2, at the BFA Technical Centre in Wildey, with the teams returning to the same venue for the second encounter on October 5.

Barbados opened their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Saint Lucia before earning a 2-2 draw against Guadeloupe, leaving them unbeaten after two matches.

Barbados (in blue) opened their campaign with a 2-0 win over Saint Lucia

Head coach Kent Hall says the squad has used the build-up to address areas that need improvement while sharpening its approach at both ends of the field.

“We’re trying to analyse our opponents and prepare for what they might throw at us. We know that these are still very early stages and there is everything to play for all four teams, at the same time. Us having four points on the board puts us in a better position, but we expect Bermuda to come and fight,” Hall explained.

While Hall expects the Bajan team to make the most of home advantage, he is under no illusion that the upcoming games will be easy.

“It’s not going to be a case of us just kind of walking over any opponents in this group, we know that we have to fully respect everybody, so as much as we’re confident, we have to match that with a high level of desire and a really strong work ethic.”

According to Hall, this begins with being “even tidier” than during the last match, since it’s always about trying to be better and trying to improve on those areas where the team was not quite 100 per cent.

He added that the team is in good spirits.

“The connections and bonds that the players have are tremendously strong. It’s a really good group of guys and for some of the players that are a little newer to the squad, the guys made them feel really welcome and we’re seeing those connections growing as well on and off the field. 

“That’s gonna also be a big factor in our chemistry and play, so we’re feeling pretty good about that and also about our prospects for these critical matches,” Hall noted.

The head coach has also made a special appeal to spectators ahead of the two games.

“The fans are always supposed to be the kind of X factor when you play home matches, and so we’re really hoping that everyone comes out, gets behind the team and is loud. 

“Encourage the hard work that the guys are gonna put on the pitch, and spur us forward to really giving the best account of ourselves and securing these points.”

(KH)