In a stunning turn of events, Steve McClaren has stepped down as head coach of the Jamaican national football team following a goalless draw with Curaçao that dashed Jamaica’s hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
McClaren, 64, who had taken over in July 2024, stated in an emotional press conference: “Leading this team has been one of the greatest honours of my career, but football is a results business and tonight we have fallen short of our goal.”
The draw leaves Jamaica in second place in Group B and forces them into the inter-continental play-offs in March, a more uncertain route to qualification. Despite being favourites, the Reggae Boyz hit the woodwork three times in the second half and were unable to break down a resilient Curaçao side.
Jamaica now embarks on a period of uncertainty, searching for a new coach and grappling with the pressure of a nation expecting World Cup football. Sources inside the federation say the search is already underway, and names of possible replacements are circulating in local media.
