Jamaica’s national under-17 footballers are just one step away from securing a historic third appearance at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup. A draw in their final group-stage match of the CONCACAF qualifiers on Saturday will guarantee them a spot in the tournament in Qatar this November.

The young Reggae Boyz are currently at the top of Group H, having earned a maximum of six points from their opening two games. They began their campaign in style on Monday, defeating St. Lucia 3-1 before turning in a stunning performance on Wednesday, thrashing the Cayman Islands 10-1. Their impressive goal difference puts them ahead of El Salvador, who are also on six points but will need to beat Jamaica to overtake them at the top of the table.

The all-important clash is set to kick off at 8:00 PM Jamaica time at the Estadio Cementos Progreso in Guatemala City. The match will follow the dead rubber encounter between St. Lucia and the Cayman Islands, set to kick off at 5:00 PM.

The stakes are high in other groups as well. In Group F, the United States leads on goal difference but only need a draw against joint leaders Cuba to secure qualification. Meanwhile, in Group G, unbeaten Panama faces the Dominican Republic in a thrilling winner-takes-all match. Honduras and Puerto Rico will square off to determine the Group D winner, with both teams tied on six points.

Elsewhere, in games of academic interest, Aruba will take on Grenada, Bonaire will face Saint Martin, and St. Kitts will oppose the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The eight group winners will secure qualification to the expanded 2025 FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar.