Steve McClaren has resigned as head coach of the Jamaica national team after a goalless draw with Curaçao ended their hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The result leaves Jamaica needing to navigate March's intercontinental play-offs in Mexico to reach the finals.
The 64-year-old former England manager saw his side hit the woodwork three times in the second half, while Curaçao became the smallest country by population to secure a place at the World Cup finals. Jamaica finished second in Group B of Concacaf qualifying despite being favourites.
McClaren said: 'Leading this team has been one of the greatest honours of my career but football is a results business and tonight we have fallen short of our goal. It is the responsibility of the leader to step forward, take accountability and make decisions in the best interests of the team.'
Jamaica can still reach the 48-team tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States. They will join Iraq, DR Congo, Bolivia, Suriname and New Caledonia in the play-offs, which offer two qualification spots. McClaren added: 'Sometimes the best thing a leader can do is to recognise when a fresh voice, new energy and a different perspective is required.'
