Martinique

What to expect

Martinique qualified through the preliminary play-offs with a win over up and coming Puerto Rico. They are making their fourth consecutive Gold Cup appearance and eighth overall. In a group with Panama, Costa Rica and El Salvador they have the strength and ability to be the surprise package and cold make it into the knockout rounds. Crucial to that will be getting a result against El Salvador. Panama may be too strong but a rebuilding and physically smaller Costa Rica could offer that opportunity of progression.

Star players

With the core of the squad drawn for the French lower leagues, Martinique have strong technique and will be well organised. Kevin Fortune scored the 1,000^th goal in Gold Cup history against Haiti in the 2021 group stage. He returns and is always a threat in front of goal. Mickael Biron is one to watch and scored a sensational goal against Costa Rica in the Nations League, assisted by Cyril Mandouki. Goalkeeper Yannis Clementia in goal is key to martialing the defence.

Coach

Marc Collat

Born in Martinique, Collat, 73, has had a managerial career predominantly in the French leagues. This is his first spell in charge of his home country, taking over in 2022. He has however managed internationally with two stints in charge of Haiti. He was in charge 2014-15 and again in 2017-2019, including during Haiti’s magnificent run in the 2019 Gold Cup that took them to the semi-finals.

Schedule:

Group C: Costa Rica, Panama, El Salvador, and Martinique

Monday, June 26, 2023: 6:30 PM (6:30 PM) El Salvador vs Martinique – DRV PNK Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Friday, June 30, 2023: 6:30 PM (6:30 PM) Martinique vs Panama – Red Bull Arena, Harrison, NJ

Tuesday, July 4, 2023 – 8:30 PM (8:30 PM) Costa Rica vs Martinique – Red Bull Arena, Harrison, NJ

Squad