Lowe: I imagine Jamaica celebrating with pot covers and flags
Damion Lowe discusses Jamaica’s FIFA Play-Off Tournament hopes, his veteran role and how qualification would enthrall the entire island.
For nearly ten years, Damion Lowe has been a part of the Jamaican national team set-up. His most important moment yet is just hours away. The Reggae Boyz meet New Caledonia in the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Play-Off Tournament, with the winner getting a final chance at reaching the global finals against Congo DR on 31 March at Guadalajara Stadium.
A previous opportunity to punch their ticket slipped through their fingers with a scoreless draw at home against Curaçao on the final day of Concacaf qualifying last November, but now under interim coach Rudolph Speid, Lowe believes Jamaica can get it done.
“The mood in the camp is focused, hungry, and determined,” Lowe told FIFA. “Everyone understands the magnitude of what’s in front of us. There’s a strong belief within the group, but also a sense of responsibility. We know we have to earn it.”
While New Caledonia are 80 spots behind the Caribbean side on the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, Lowe expects a stiff test from the OFC runner-up.
“At this level, every opponent is dangerous,” he said. “We expect a well-organised, competitive team that will fight for everything. For us, it’s about focusing on our identity of being aggressive, disciplined and clinical. We respect every opponent, but we also believe in our quality.”
Lowe’s place in the Jamaica team is crucial. A player who has gone through three World Cup qualifying cycles and a member of the Reggae Boyz team that reached the 2017 Concacaf Gold Cup final, the centre-back exudes calm and confidence, two traits that will be sorely needed in these nerve-rattling play-offs.
“When I first came in, I was learning, observing, and trying to earn my place,” said Lowe. “Now I’m in a leadership role guiding younger players, setting standards, and helping maintain the culture within the team. It’s about leading by example both on and off the field.”
There is still plenty to do for Jamaica to realise their World Cup dream and return to the tournament for the first time since France 1998. But Lowe cannot help but imagine what emotions he might feel and what impact on the country qualification would have.
“It would be tears of pure joy and excitement,” said Lowe. “I imagine the entire island celebrating with pot covers and flags everywhere. It would be a dream come true, not just for us players but for the whole nation.
"It would be massive. It would inspire the next generation, boost investment in football, and bring unity across the country. Football has a powerful way of bringing people together, and qualifying would uplift the entire nation.”