GLENDALE, Pheonix, CMC – Trinidad and Tobago’s coach Stephen Hart says the Soca Warriors have defied their critics by reaching the quarter-finals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
The Caribbean side brushed aside Cuba 2-0 at the University of Phoenix Stadium here Sunday, to follow up their 3-1 victory over Guatemala last week in their opening game, and strengthen their hold on Group C with six points.
“I think it was important for us to qualify. No one gave us any chance back home … to even win a game. That’s what they were saying,” Hart told a post-match media conference.
“It’s important for the people, for the young players back at home, it’s important for our football. I cannot tell you how important it is for us to get to the quarter-final.
“I am very happy for these young players because they believed in me. I showed faith in them and they were rewarded tonight.”
First-half goals from Sheldon Bateau and Andre Boucaud were enough to seal the points for T&T, who now face CONCACAF giants Mexico in their final game tomorrow, at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.
Mexico lie second on four points after beating Cuba in their opening game but were then held to a goalless draw by ten-man Guatemala on Sunday.
