Busby excited to close year with Girlz friendlies

Reggae Girlz head coach Hubert Busby said he is looking forward to Jamaica’s upcoming friendlies against France and South Africa to close out the year.

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) confirmed the Girlz will travel to France on October 25 before a pair of friendlies against South Africa at home on November 29 and December 2.

Busby said the games ahead are against good opposition which will put the Girlz to the test as they look to end the year on a high.

“We’re pleased to close out the rest of the calendar year with three competitive games that will continue to not only test us but allow us to build on our playing philosophies and principles,” he said.

“Overall, it’s three good matches that will be really good for the group and good for the team,” Busby said.

Jamaica will face off against France for the first time since their meeting at the FIFA Women’s World Cup last year.

Then, Jamaica held the European giants to a scoreless draw to earn the nation’s first ever point at the World Cup.

Busby said with the amount of time which has passed since that meeting, the teams will have completely two different mindsets when they meet again.

“I think both teams will have a lot of similar players. However, the circumstances will be very different this time,” Busby explained. “Both teams are gearing up for different competitions. France have the Euros for next year and we’re getting ready for World Cup qualifiers.

“The 2023 World Cup was a memorable performance, but I think both Jamaica and France have probably turned the page now. It’s another year, another cycle and the ever-changing landscape of football continues.”

Busby also said the opportunity to play in front of a home crowd is one the team will always appreciate.

The last time the full contingent of Reggae Girlz played in Jamaica was last year against Canada in the Concacaf W Olympic Play-In.

Busby said it is important the team has a good performance against South Africa at home as it will inspire the next generation of Reggae Girlz.

“I think the players will be pleased to be back playing in front of our fans. I think it is really important for us to continue putting in great performances as we have the responsibility as a federation and as a programme to keep inspiring the next generation.”

Jamaica last faced South Africa back in 2019 where the teams played to a 1-1 draw.