Under 17 Belize Men’s National Team – Photo Credit: FFB
By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Belize wrapped up their participation in the 2026 Concacaf Under‑17 Qualifiers on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 with a determined performance, earning a 0–0 draw against group leaders Cuba at Estadio Cementos Progreso in Guatemala City. Led by Head Coach Philip Marin and captain Marlon Meza Jr., the U17 BMNT closed the tournament with their strongest showing, capping a campaign marked by steady improvement, resilience, and competitive spirit.
Belize opened the tournament last Friday against El Salvador, taking a 1–0 lead through Andy Pop in the 12th minute before eventually falling 3–1. Despite the loss, the early goal and stretches of composed play hinted at the team’s potential.
On Sunday, Belize delivered their most dynamic attacking half of the qualifiers, racing to a 2–0 halftime lead over Curaçao thanks to goals from Andy Pop (2′) and Byron Marroquin (41′). Curaçao, however, responded in the second half, equalizing through Jëalardino Floranus (64′) and Eljan Sparen (68′) to force a 2–2 draw. The point was Belize’s first of the tournament and set up a meaningful final matchday.
Under 17 Belize Men’s National Team – Photo Credit: FFB
Against Cuba, the strongest team in Group F, Belize produced their most disciplined defensive display. Goalkeeper Lucas Gallego was outstanding, making crucial saves to keep the match scoreless. In the closing minutes, Belize pushed forward with confidence, creating pressure and threatening to snatch a dramatic late winner.
Cuba’s seven points secured them the group title and the only available berth to the 2026 FIFA U‑17 World Cup in Qatar. Behind them, El Salvador finished with six points, while Belize secured third place with two points, ahead of Curaçao, who ended with one point.
In their final match, El Salvador defeated Curaçao 5–1, but it was not nearly enough to change the outcome. With only the group winners advancing, Cuba had already secured the World Cup ticket, leaving the Salvadorans officially eliminated — a surprising outcome for a team that entered the qualifiers as favourites.
For Belize, the campaign ends with clear signs of growth: early attacking sparks, improved midfield control, and a final match that showcased defensive maturity and late‑game ambition. While the U17 BMNT will not advance, they leave Guatemala with valuable experience and a performance trajectory that rose with each match.
Under 17 Belize Men’s National Team – Photo Credit: FFB
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Under 17 Belize Men’s National Team – Photo Credit: FFB By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Belize wrapped up their participation in the 2026 Concacaf Under‑17 Qualifiers on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 with a determined performance, earning a 0–0 draw against group leaders Cuba at Estadio Cementos Progreso in Guatemala City. Led by Head Coach Philip Marin
The post Belize close U17 Concacaf Qualifiers with gritty performances and a strong finish against Group F winners Cuba appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
