Jamaica will try to extend their Cinderella run at the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup when they face Colombia in the round of 16 on Tuesday, with Assistant Coach Xavier Gilbert optimistic about the Reggae Girlz’ chances.

The game is scheduled for 3:00 am (Jamaica time) at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium in Australia.

Gilbert stated that while the Reggae Girlz are ecstatic to be in the knockout stages of the competition, they are focused on the task at hand and are eager to go the extra mile to get a favourable result versus the Colombians.

“I mean, it definitely feels good to be in the knockout stages. Being in this knockout stage without conceding a goal is a tremendous feeling and that shouldn’t go unnoticed,” Gilbert told the Jamaica Observer.

“Like any other team, we’ve watched the Colombia team a couple of times and are preparing for them. They are a good squad, and we have seen how good they are and how potent they are up top, and we are aware of it, and we must counteract it, which will be our primary focus.

“There are a few areas that we can exploit, and that is what we will be working on, as well as limiting their strengths. This is the knockout stage, the aim is to go out there and win. I believe we can win, and we are preparing to do so. We like our chances just like anyone else,” Gilbert remarked.

The Reggae Girlz drew 0-0 with France and Brazil and defeated Panama 1-0 in Group F to reach the knockout stages for the first time in only their second World Cup appearance. The three results were all historic, and the Reggae Girlz are looking to rewrite another chapter in their tale.

“The Girlz’s performances throughout the competition so far have been good. I think we have made all Jamaicans, Caribbean people, and Concacaf at large, proud in terms of our representation here. It goes to show how our programme has grown and how our football in the region has grown and I think it has been good,” explained the tactician.

Gilbert said the Girlz had prepared thoroughly for this encounter and are eager to create more amazing moments.

“We’ve practised. It’s a long recovery period for the guys because we worked hard and some of them would have played three games. We have to thank the medical team for their efforts, as they have worked in the wee hours of the night, and morning at times, to ensure that the players heal and are available for selection, and I have to salute them,” he said.