Garcia talks about T&T Reset in Tashkent

Garcia Double Offers positive signs as T&T Begin Reset in Tashkent

Senior team Captain Levi Garcia delivered a timely reminder of his quality and importance to Trinidad and Tobago, scoring twice in a 2-2 draw with Gabon during last week’s FIFA Series in Tashkent.

The 28-year-old forward took his international tally to 12 goals, but beyond the numbers, his performance carried deeper meaning for a team still processing the disappointment of falling short in World Cup qualifying.

Garcia admitted the goals meant a lot.
“It feels good to have scored two goals, especially knowing it’s been a while. Playing for the country is a feeling you just can’t explain—it’s never about money or anything else, just pride and honour,” he told TTFA Media.

The brace comes at a time when both player and team are trying to move forward after what he described as a painful near-miss.

“Knowing how close we were to a World Cup and didn’t qualify is something I don’t think I’ll get over anytime soon. But life goes on.”

In Tashkent, there were signs of that shift. While the result itself was shared prior to the loss on penalties against the Africans, Garcia pointed to the wider picture—one that includes rebuilding confidence, structure and belief within the group.

He also acknowledged a growing responsibility within the squad. T&T gave up a 1-0 lead and eventually lost 4-1 to Venezuela in its first game during which Garcia missed a penalty inside the opening three minutes.

“I feel like I have a lot to offer to the younger ones. We have a lot of talented players, but they need guidance. It hasn’t been easy for our players.”

Garcia believes this period is critical, not just for the national team but for the wider direction of the game locally, stressing that any long-term vision—particularly toward 2030—must start taking shape now.

Still, he left Tashkent encouraged.
“There were a lot of positives to take from the FIFA Series, and I believe if we get the support, we can do great things.”
Next up for Trinidad and Tobago are two international friendlies in late May in the United States, followed by another set of fixtures in early June, with details on those matches expected to be announced in due course.

For Trinidad and Tobago, the draw may not define the trip—but the response from their captain just might shape what comes next.