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Trinidad and Tobago aiming to keep up the pace at Gold Cup

Xinhua, July 19, 2015 Adjust font size:

Dance and celebration are part of what helped Trinidad and Tobago to reach the goal that many thought it was impossible.

After an electrifying 4-4 tie against Mexico which led Trinidad and Tobago to be first in Group C, the "Soca Warriors" have made history and they will now play quarterfinals against Panama next Sunday in CONCACAF (Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Football Association) Gold Cup 2015.

"It was the last match of Group phase and we made something big, but we still have more to achieve," said defender Sheldon Bateau. "Now the pressure for us is to keep this high level," he added.

The game against Mexico played last Wednesday is being called by some as the best one in Gold Cup. The goal scored by Yohance Marshall, which led Trinidad and Tobago to tie against Mexico, was the best one of the player' s career. Marshall, 29, headed a goal from a corner shot made by Joevin Jones in injury time.

"Our performance proved we can face anyone in the world," said Marshall adding that "this is result of believing in ourselves and thinking we could make it."

Panama is not an unknown rival for Trinidad and Tobago. Both teams faced last March in Ato Boldon stadium, where Panama won 1-0 with a goal scored by Romano Torres.

Bateau said now will be different because Trinidad and Tobago will play different on Sunday. "We have players with more experience," he said and added that "then we had a young team, we were not so self-confident and trained as we are now. We are ready to give a good show."

Bateau, 24, is now a star in the team. "It is the perfect moment. I am playing well, I am scoring goals and I hope to continue doing it this season."

In 2013, Trinidad also reached quarterfinals but was defeated 1-0 by Mexico.

Trinidad and Tobago hopes to reach Gold Cup semifinals. "This is a goal we set for this tournament and it will be good for the future World Cup qualifying stage," said Marshall.

For the Trinidad and Tobago players, the good results of the Caribbean squads are a matter of pride. "This is very good for Caribbean football and for the region," said Marshall. Endi