A relatively inexperienced Barbados senior men’s football team departed the island today for Dominica, where they will take on the home side in two international friendly matches.
The first clash is scheduled for Thursday, 8 May, at 7 p.m. at the Dominica Football Association Technical Centre, while the second encounter kicks off at 4 p.m. on Sunday, 11 May, at Windsor Park Sports Stadium.
With a number of senior players from last year’s successful Concacaf Nations League campaign unavailable, Head Coach Kent Hall has called on a host of new names to don the national colours.
“It’s a very different squad from last year,” Hall said. “Several of our key players are missing, but this has opened up a wonderful development opportunity for some new faces to step up.”
Of the 23 players named in the travelling party, nine will be making their debut appearance in a senior national squad — a clear indication that the team is investing in youth and building depth for the future.
“These matches are the perfect chance to expose our newer local players to the demands of senior international football,” Hall added. “It’s going to be a learning experience, and all we ask is that they give their best and represent Barbados with pride.”
The friendlies will also serve as vital preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, where Barbados will face Aruba on Wednesday, 4 June, at the BFA Technical Centre, followed by an away fixture against St. Lucia on Tuesday, 10 June, at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground.
Full National Senior Men’s Squad:
Jireh Malcolm, Raheem Agard, Shaquon Phillips, Carl Hinkson, Jayden Goodridge, Kamari Johnson, Honor Bradshaw (Whitehall FA), Jaheim Headley (Ellerton FC), Jaiden Miller, Mario Williams, Ricardio Morris, Ngozi Reid, Darian King, Jaheim Neblett, Jaylan Gilkes, Sekani Mayers, Jelani Chandler, Sheran Hoyte, Corey Hoyte, Khimani Cox, Roshon Gittens, Shamari Harewood.
(JC)
