Jamaica U-17s face Italy, Cote d'Ivoire and Uzbekistan in FIFA World Cup Group E

Jamaica head coach Wendell Downswell says the national under-17 squad is not alarmed by its FIFA U-17 World Cup draw, even after being placed in Group E with Italy, Cote d'Ivoire and Uzbekistan.

Downswell said the assignment is a major stage for the young players, the coaching staff and Jamaica, and that the team must approach the tournament with confidence against strong opposition.

With the draw now confirmed, he said the technical staff has turned attention to preparation matches. Jamaica are looking at arranging competitive warm-up games, including possible fixtures against European and African opposition, to help the squad adjust before the tournament.

Downswell also indicated that selection is not completely closed. He said there is still room for players who can add value to the group, though he does not expect sweeping changes to the squad already under consideration.

At the tournament, the top two teams in each group will move on, along with the eight best third-place teams, setting up a round of 32.

Jamaica earned their place at the FIFA U-17 World Cup by finishing first in their group at the CONCACAF U-17 Championship and winning all their matches during the qualifying campaign.

The FIFA U-17 World Cup is scheduled for Qatar from November 19 to December 13.