McLaren quits after Jamaica's World Cup failure sparks joy for tiny Curaçao

McLaren quits after Jamaica’s World Cup failure sparks joy for tiny Curaçao

Steve McClaren has resigned as head coach of Jamaica following their failure to secure automatic qualification for the World Cup finals.

The Reggae Boyz head into last night’s clash with Curacao needing a win to claim top spot in Concacaf Group B and a place at next summer’s global showpiece in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

But they failed to make a breakthrough – and a late penalty was disallowed by VAR – with Curaçao holding on to a goalless draw. They will now become the smallest nation to take part in a World Cup, while Jamaica will look to join them via the play-off tournament in March.

McLaren admits Jamaica fell short

McLaren, who also resigned after failing to lead England to Euro 2008 17 years ago, confirmed his retirement after the game in Kingston.

« For the last 18 months I have given my all to this job, » he said. “To lead this team is one of the greatest honors of my career.

« But football is about results and tonight we didn’t achieve our goal, which was to qualify from this group.

“It is a leader’s responsibility to step forward, take responsibility and make decisions in the best interest of the team.

“After careful consideration and an honest assessment of where we are and where we need to go, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Jamaican national team.

« Sometimes the best thing a leader can do is recognize when a fresh voice, new energy, and a different perspective are needed to move that team forward. »

Curaçao, a Dutch Caribbean island with a population of just over 150,000, is led by former Sunderland and Rangers boss Dick Advokaat, although he missed the game due to a family issue.

They will now take their place alongside heavyweights Brazil, Argentina, England and Spain.

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