Belize National Football Team qualifies for the Gold Cup Preliminaries

After their 2-2 draw against French Guiana on Tuesday, November 19th, the Belize National Football Team (Jaguars) advanced with a 4-3 aggregate score, qualifying for the preliminary round of the CONCACAF Gold Cup. This match was part of the CONCACAF Nations League.
The match occurred at the Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed Stadium in Paramaribo, Suriname. The Jaguars took an early lead with a goal by Krisean Lopez in the 40th minute of the first half. However, French Guiana responded with an offensive play in the second half, equalizing the game in the 48th minute with a goal from Yvelin Nozile.
The Jaguars regained the lead in the 52nd minute with a goal from Carlos Bernardez. In the 73rd minute, French Guiana nearly equalized when Belize’s goalkeeper, Charles Tillett, saved a penalty kick taken by Max Gourpil, the home team’s striker. French Guiana continued to press offensively as the match progressed and was awarded another penalty kick in the 89th minute. This time, Jules Haabo of French Guiana took the shot and successfully scored, leveling the match. No further goals were scored, but the draw was sufficient for Belize to secure victory based on the aggregate score, having won 2-1 against French Guiana on November 14th in Belize.
Following the final match, the Football Federation of Belize stated, “History has been written. Our Belize Men’s National Football Team has completed an incredible campaign in the 2024 Concacaf Nations League. This journey was not just about football but a testament to our nation’s spirit—a story of grit, passion, and unity. From the first whistle to the final play, our team gave everything for the flag they represent, for the fans who cheered them on, and for the dreams of a brighter future in Belizean football. Securing a spot in the Concacaf Gold Cup Prelims is a victory for all of us. It’s proof that with hard work, discipline, and belief, we can achieve greatness. To our players, coaches, and every Belizean who stood by this team—this moment belongs to YOU.” The draw in French Guiana left Belize on a six-game unbeaten streak. The Jaguars secured two victories against the Turks and Caicos Islands and Anguilla, allowing them to top Group B of League C in the CONCACAF Nations League.
The Belize National Team is now one of 14 teams preparing for the preliminary round of the Gold Cup in March 2025. The Jaguars will face powerhouse Costa Rica for a chance to advance to the tournament, consisting of a seven-match home-and-away series.