T&T Senior Men assemble in Tashkent
Senior Men’s Team Fully Assembled in Tashkent Ahead of FIFA Series 2026
The Trinidad and Tobago Senior Men’s National Team is now fully assembled in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, with the final set of players arriving into camp at the Courtyard Marriott late Tuesday night.
The squad got its first full day underway with a light morning activation session, followed by Head Coach Derek King conducting his first full outfield training in the evening at the Uzbekistan National Football Center — a modern, high-performance facility equipped with top-tier resources.
Conditions in Tashkent have been favourable, with cool temperatures and good training surfaces allowing for productive sessions. There is also a noticeable buzz around the city, as Uzbekistan recently secured qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026, adding to the positive football atmosphere surrounding the team’s stay.
Despite long-haul travel from multiple continents, the team has settled well into camp, with players arriving from across Europe, Asia, and North America. Captain Levi Garcia made one of the shorter journeys from Russia, while Reon Moore and Justin Garcia traveled in from Vietnam. Duane Muckette, John Paul Rochford, and Jerrin Jackie arrived from Oman, with Dantaye Gilbert coming out of the Czech Republic.
Defender Rio Cardines linked up from England, while Deron Payne arrived from the Netherlands. Ryan Telfer and Andre Rampersad joined the squad from Spain, where their club Halifax Wanderers is currently in preseason.
A strong USA-based contingent including Nathaniel James, Noah Powder, Roald Mitchell, Real Gill, Jaylen Yearwood, and Denzil Smith also linked up, alongside home based players traveling from Port of Spain such as Daniel David, Teshorne Ragoo, Shervohnez Hamilton, Adam Pierre, Lindell Sween and Jabari Brice among the group.
Speaking after arrival, midfielder Nathaniel James shared his thoughts on the journey and the challenge ahead.
“Yeah, the travel was long, no doubt, but that’s part of the job. I’m feeling good, the body is coming around, and the focus now is on Venezuela. It’s a strong opponent, but we’re ready for the challenge and looking forward to representing Trinidad and Tobago with honour and pride like always,”James said.
Trinidad and Tobago will face the Venezuela on Friday, March 27 at 6:00 AM (TT time) at the Pakhtakor Central Stadium in Tashkent, before taking on the Gabon on March 30.
Venezuela arrives with a strong, internationally-based squad featuring players across top leagues in Europe and South America. The group includes talent from clubs such as West Ham United, ACF Fiorentina, Fluminense FC, and Real Sociedad, highlighting the growing depth and international experience within the Venezuelan setup.
Key names include attacking midfielder Jefferson Savarino of Fluminense, young defender Luis Balbo of Fiorentina, and emerging winger Keiber Lamadrid, currently on loan at West Ham United.
Meanwhile, Gabon is also expected to present a stern test despite notable absences. Interim head coach Yala Anicet has opted to leave out several key players who featured in the most recent Africa Cup of Nations squad.
Among those omitted are Denis Bouanga and Mario Lemina, with Royce Oubinda also missing from selection. Captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is another major absentee, reportedly declining the call-up for this international window.
Despite these exclusions, Gabon retains a competitive core and will be eager to showcase its depth, making them a solid opponent for Trinidad and Tobago in the second fixture.
The upcoming matches provide valuable international exposure for the Trinidad and Tobago squad as preparations continue against diverse opposition.
