ABFA trims Under-15 squad as World Cup preparations intensify

By Neto Baptiste The Antigua and Barbuda Football Association (ABFA) has reduced its boys’ under-15 training squad to 23 players as preparations continue for the inaugural FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan. The tournament is scheduled for October 22 to 31, with the 23-player group selected from an initial training squad of 33 players born in 2011 and 2012. Training sessions are being held at the ABFA Technical Centre, as the coaching staff, led by head coach Auchland Jarvis, continues preparations to identify the final 14 players who will represent Antigua and Barbuda at the tournament. The final squad is expected to be announced on October 2.

Antigua and Barbuda is among 194 nations participating in the inaugural competition, which will feature an eight-a-side format introduced by FIFA as part of its development pathway for players in this age group. The tournament will place an emphasis on participation and playing time rather than elimination, with every participating nation guaranteed a minimum of 10 matches, each lasting 40 minutes, regardless of results. FIFA is fully funding participation in the competition. Jarvis said the current camp builds on the work already completed with the players at the CFU Under-14 Challenge Series. “We are building on the foundation laid at the CFU Under-14 Challenge Series. These players know what is expected of them…