Imps Face Off In World Cup Qualifying, But Former Loanee Steals The Show

Credit Graham Burrell

Two current Imps found themselves on opposite sides in Kingston, but it was another familiar face who grabbed the headlines.

While former Imps Morgan Rogers bagged an assist for England as the Three Lions edged towards the World Cup, two current players were also in key action. Jamaica’s 2-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago in World Cup qualifying saw Dexter Lembikisa and Justin Obikwu line up against each other, yet Bailey Cadamarteri stole the show with the opening goal.

Imps in Action

The Reggae Boyz handed a start to right-back Lembikisa, currently on loan at Sincil Bank from Wolverhampton Wanderers, while opposite him in the Trinidad squad was loanee Obikwu, introduced late on by Dwight Yorke.

For both players, it was another chance to test themselves on the international stage, though the evening ultimately belonged to Cadamarteri.

The Sheffield Wednesday forward, who also spent time with the Imps last season, broke the deadlock in the 36th minute with a well-taken finish that highlighted the sharp instincts that have made him a popular figure at Hillsborough this season. His strike settled the nerves of the home side, who had already seen Trinidad have the ball in the net only for VAR to intervene.

Jonathan Russell’s second-half goal sealed the points, but it was Cadamarteri who took the plaudits, with his performance reminding Imps supporters of the quality he showed during his short stay in Lincolnshire.

McClaren’s Praise

Head coach Steve McClaren, himself a former Imp having enjoyed a 1986 loan spell at the Bank, was quick to point out the resilience of his squad after a testing build-up, with injuries depriving Jamaica of eight regulars.

“We got many injuries leading up to the camp. Eight regular players have been missing. So to come here with an inexperienced squad and get six points, which is always the goal, credit to the players and the squad, they have done a remarkable job.”

Jamaica’s back-to-back victories leave them top of Group B with maximum points and on course for the World Cup in 2026, while Trinidad are already playing catch-up in the race for qualification.

Next up

Lembikisa and Obikwu will now return to Sincil Bank, along with Ivan Varfolomeev, and likely be in contention for a place this weekend against Burton Albion. It is unlikely any of the three will start the game, but we could see one or more from the bench, given suspensions in defence, and attack.