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Messi Makes Caribbean Debut As Inter Miami Defeats Cavalier FC

News Americas, New York, NY, Fri. March 14, 2025: Soccer great Lionel Messi made a triumphant return to action for his first Caribbean match Thursday, scoring a late goal as Inter Miami secured a 2-0 victory over Jamaica’s Cavalier FC, Jamaican football club based in the community of Mountain View in Kingston, which currently plays in the Jamaica Premier League, on Thursday to advance to the Concacaf Champions Cup quarter-finals.

Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF controls the ball during the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 Second Leg match between Cavalier SC and Inter Miami CF at The Jamaican National Stadium on March 13, 2025 in Kingston, Jamaica. It was Messi’s first time playing in the Caribbean and Jamaica. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Messi, who had been sidelined for three games due to load management, entered the match in the 53rd minute to roaring applause from fans at Kingston’s Independence Park. Making an immediate impact, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner sealed the win with a goal just before the final whistle, firing the ball into the opposite corner of the net. The assist came from 18-year-old Santiago Morales, a promising homegrown player for Miami.

General view inside the stadium during the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 Second Leg match between Cavalier SC and Inter Miami CF at The Jamaican National Stadium on March 13, 2025 in Kingston, Jamaica. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

This match marked Messi’s first official game in Jamaica and the Caribbean, a highly anticipated moment for fans. He and his teammates were welcomed upon arrival in Jamaica by Olivia Grange, the country’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport.

Inter Miami, already leading 2-0 from the first leg at home last week, quickly extended their advantage in the first half when Luis Suárez converted a penalty after a foul on Tadeo Allende inside the box.

With the 4-0 aggregate victory, Miami now prepares to take on LAFC in the quarterfinals, after the MLS Western Conference side eliminated the Columbus Crew in their round-of-16 matchup.

West Indies To Face Pakistan In New Year

News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Dec. 30, 2024: Cricket West Indies has announced the squad for the upcoming tour of Pakistan, where the team will play two Test matches from January 17 to January 29, 2025, at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This tour marks the West Indies’ first Test series in Pakistan in 18 years and serves as the concluding chapter of the current ICC World Test Championship cycle.

West Indies men’s team will face Pakistan in the New Year.

Historic Return to Pakistan

The series is set to reignite the rivalry between the two teams and holds historic significance as the West Indies play Test cricket on Pakistani soil for the first time since 2007. The squad, led by captain Kraigg Brathwaite, includes a mix of seasoned players and promising newcomers.

Left-handed batter Amir Jangoo, who recently made headlines with a match-winning century on his ODI debut against Bangladesh, has earned his maiden Test call-up. Additionally, spinner Gudakesh Motie returns to the squad after missing the recent drawn series against Bangladesh.

Coach’s Vision

Head Coach Andre Coley expressed optimism about the team’s potential, emphasizing a focus on growth and execution. “For the Test series against Pakistan in January 2025, the focus is on building on what we have done well and transforming the learnings from 2024 into tangible results,” Coley said.

He also highlighted the importance of Jangoo and Motie’s inclusion: “Motie rejoins the squad to bolster the spin attack, while Jangoo’s selection comes on the back of his consistency across formats in regional cricket, as well as his demonstrated high level of competency against spin bowling.”

Squad Adjustments

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph will be unavailable due to other commitments, while Shamar Joseph continues to recover from injury. The team will leave the Caribbean on January 2 and is expected to arrive in Islamabad on January 6.

West Indies Test Squad for Pakistan

Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain)

Joshua Da Silva (Vice-Captain)

Alick Athanaze

Keacy Carty

Justin Greaves

Kavem Hodge

Tevin Imlach

Amir Jangoo

Mikyle Louis

Gudakesh Motie

Anderson Phillip

Kemar Roach

Kevin Sinclair

Jayden Seales

Jomel Warrican

This series presents a significant opportunity for the West Indies to close the World Test Championship cycle on a high note and showcase their continued development on the global stage.

Stop Playing Sports With Sports: Reinvesting In Caribbean Advancement

By Dr. Isaac Newton

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Sat. Jan. 18, 2025: The Caribbean’s story is one of rhythm, resilience, and brilliance. Yet, in the symphony of national priorities, sports often plays second fiddle to education, healthcare, and carnival culture. This imbalance is short-sighted, neglecting sports as a vital engine of economic growth, social unity, and personal transformation.

St Lucia’s Julien Alfred celebrates after winning the women’s 100m final of the athletics event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on August 3, 2024. (Photo by Martin BERNETTI / AFP) (Photo by MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP via Getty Images)

Take the numbers: in 2022, the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) injected over $200 million into regional economies. Guyana alone saw an economic impact of over $101 million in 2023, proving that sports not only entertains but also drives tourism, creates jobs, and amplifies international visibility.

Sports is more than dollars and cents—it is a force for unity. In Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda and St. Kitts and Nevis, structured youth programs have curbed crime, offering young people a positive path and building stronger communities. It’s also a health prescription: with diabetes and hypertension rampant across the Caribbean, active lifestyles driven by sports reduce healthcare costs and increase productivity.

Educationally, sports teaches lessons no classroom can match—discipline, teamwork, and leadership. Programs in St. Lucia, for instance, have empowered at-risk girls to outperform expectations in school and life.

The power of sports is personified by Julien Alfred, who in 2024 became Saint Lucia’s first Olympic gold medalist, winning the women’s 100-meter dash. Her triumph didn’t just bring glory to her nation; it inspired the entire region, solidifying the Caribbean as a global athletic powerhouse.

The region has long been renowned for producing world-class athletes who elevate its global brand. From Usain Bolt, the Jamaican sprint legend whose electrifying performances redefined athletics, to Barbados’ Kraigg Brathwaite, who carries the proud cricketing legacy of the West Indies, these icons inspire and attract investment, tourism, and global partnerships.

Yet, despite this potential, Caribbean nations allocate just 0.1% of GDP to sports programs. This glaring underinvestment ignores sports’ ability to unify nations, energize economies, and empower youth to dream beyond boundaries.

It’s time to recalibrate. Cultural festivals like carnivals are vital to our identity, but sports deserves equal spotlight. By investing intentionally in sports infrastructure, training, and programs, Caribbean governments can unleash a wave of opportunity—building healthier societies, safer communities, and brighter futures.

The time has come to stop playing sports with sports and recognize its profound role in our progress.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton is a Caribbean-born scholar and International Leadership Consultant. A Harvard, Princeton and Columbia -trained, he has spent decades advising global leaders on sustainable development and transformational leadership across the Caribbean and Africa.

Caribbean Olympian Sets National Record At New Balance Grand Prix

News Americas, New York, NY, February 3, 2025: Caribbean Olympian, St. Lucia-born sprint star and Olympic 100-m champion Julian Alfred, delivered a stunning early-season performance on Sunday, setting a new national record in the women’s 300m at the New Balance Grand Prix in Boston.

Julien Alfred stuns at New Balance Grand Prix.

Alfred dominated the race from the start, blazing through the 100m in 11.83 seconds and the 200m in 23.18 seconds before powering to the finish line in an impressive 36.16 seconds. Her time shattered the St. Lucian national record and left her competitors trailing behind.

Great Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith secured second place in a personal best of 36.87 seconds, while France’s Emma Montoya finished third in 38.37 seconds.

Caribbean Athletes Shine Across Events

In the men’s 60m dash, Bahamian sprinter Terrence Jones showcased his speed, claiming second place with a season’s best of 6.57 seconds. He was narrowly beaten by American world champion Noah Lyles, who won in 6.52 seconds, while PJ Austin of the U.S. took third in 6.60 seconds. Italy’s Olympic 100m champion Marcell Jacobs finished fourth in 6.63 seconds.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem Richards made an impact in the men’s 400m, clocking 46.49 seconds to finish third. Despite a strong first 200m in 21.12 seconds, Richards was overtaken by Americans Quincy Wilson and Will Sumner, who set personal bests of 45.66 seconds and 46.27 seconds, respectively.

Jamaica’s Romaine Beckford delivered a strong showing in the men’s high jump, clearing 2.19m to finish second on countback. He shared the same height as winner Vernon Turner (USA) and third-place finisher Luis Castro Rivera (Puerto Rico), both achieving season’s best performances.

Bahamian hurdler Devynne Charlton added to the Caribbean’s success, securing third place in the women’s 60m hurdles with a season’s best of 7.85 seconds. She finished just behind Americans Masai Russell (7.80) and Grace Stark (7.81), while Jamaica’s Ackera Nugent placed fourth in 7.92 seconds.

This Caribbean NFL Player Is Heading To The Super Bowl

News Americas, New York, NY, February 3, 2025: Caribbean immigrant and Haitian-born Lewis Cine is heading to Super Bowl LIX as part of the Philadelphia Eagles team.

The Eagles will face defending champions, the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX this Sunday, Feb. 9th. Though Cine, who was signed off the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad last month, is unlikely to play, his presence at the NFL’s biggest game is a significant milestone for the Haitian-born athlete.

Haitian-born Lewis Cine at Highmark Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan Bennett/Getty Images)

From Haiti to the Super Bowl Stage

Born on October 5, 1999, in Haiti, Cine immigrated to the United States at age four, first settling in Florida before moving to Everett, Massachusetts. A standout high school football player, he was named Massachusetts Defensive Player of the Year by USA Today as a junior. After transferring to Trinity Christian School in Texas for his senior year, Cine was coached by NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders before committing to play college football at Georgia.

At Georgia, Cine quickly established himself as a top defensive talent. In 2021, he helped lead the Bulldogs to a National Championship, earning Defensive MVP honors in the title game. His success led him to declare for the 2022 NFL Draft, where he was selected 32nd overall by the Minnesota Vikings.

Haitian immigrant NFL star Lewis Cine. (Photo by Bryan Bennett/Getty Images)

NFL Journey and Super Bowl Opportunity

Cine’s time with the Vikings was marked by challenges. He played just 10 games over two seasons, missing most of his rookie year due to a season-ending compound fracture. When he returned in his second season, he played seven games, mostly on special teams.

After being released by Minnesota, Cine was expected to sign with the New York Jets but instead landed with the Buffalo Bills. Cine was signed off the Bills’ practice squad to Philadelphia’s active roster Jan. 8. While he hasn’t seen game action with the Eagles since joining them in January, Philadelphia may be holding out hope that he can contribute next season.

Currently on the Eagles’ active 53-man roster, Cine remains in the team’s plans beyond the Super Bowl. Whether he sticks around through the offseason and earns a bigger role next year remains to be seen, but his presence at the NFL’s biggest game is already a testament to his perseverance and determination.

As the Eagles battle the Chiefs, Cine will be on the sidelines, proudly representing Haiti and the Caribbean on football’s grandest stage.

How Weather Conditions Impact Copa América Betting

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Feb. 5, 2025: The Copa América football tournament is one of the world’s most illustrious competitions since it unites the premium teams across South America in a quest for continental victory. Betting enthusiasts usually consider team performance history and individual statistics, but they fail to weigh fully how environmental weather conditions affect game results. The performance at Copa América matches heavily depends on weather conditions because diverse climates throughout the host nations affect player endurance and coaching strategies.

Copa América wagers demand finding the proper betting platform. With its complete sportsbook, betway presents thorough match information, live betting features, and solid odds to support bettors in making educated selections. Betting on match outcomes, as well as goal totals and individual player performance results, can benefit from weather influence knowledge.

Players of Mexico’s CF Pachuca attend a training session ahead of the FIFA Derby of the Americas Cup Qatar 2024 match between Brazil’s Botafogo and Mexico’s CF Pachuca at 974 Stadium in Doha, Qatar, on December 10, 2024. (Photo by Noushad Thekkayil/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

How Weather Affects Copa América Matches

The massive geographic spread of South America introduces specific difficulties that teams face during Copa América competitions. The environmental conditions change dramatically since host locations are spread across both the humid Amazon rainforest and high-altitude cities, which require players to adapt swiftly. Here’s how different weather elements can influence match results:

1. High Temperatures and Humidity

The tournaments awarded to Brazil, Colombia, or Argentina’s coastal regions usually see hot humidity become a significant challenge.

Effects on Betting Outcomes:

Slower tempo: Because of their need to save energy, teams pull back their momentum, which results in a lack of quick counterattacks. The resulting match pace slowdown commonly results in under 2.5-goal games which bettors need to analyze carefully.

Fatigue factor: Player fatigue grows faster in these conditions which raises the probability of late-game goals. As games move into their final minutes live betting presents a valuable opportunity for goal-scoring bets.

Impact on European-based players: European leagues host several Copa América’s leading players because they play in cooler conditions. Players exposed to high temperatures may find difficulty maintaining performance levels which leads to reduced goal-scoring opportunities.

2. High Altitude Matches

High altitude stadiums exist throughout South America, including La Paz in Bolivia, which is 3,600 meters above sea level, and Quito in Ecuador, which is 2,800 meters above sea level. Match dynamics in such high-elevation settings differ substantially from games played at sea level.

Effects on Betting Outcomes:

Advantage for home teams: The altitude-native teams of Bolivia and Ecuador show stronger performance outcomes on their home high-altitude playing fields thereby enhancing their status as betting favorites alongside underdog prospects.

Oxygen depletion: Football squads without altitude training experience face stamina problems, which leads to them allowing additional goals at match end. Analysts have found strategic success in placing bets that predict late-match goal events during altitude contests.

Long-range shots: At high altitudes, reduced air density causes balls to move farther, helping both long-range shots and set pieces to succeed, which makes prop bets focused on “goals from outside the box” especially valuable.

3. Heavy Rain and Wet Conditions

The Copa América tournament develops under South America’s rainy season conditions when heavy rainfall frequently compromises the state of football pitches.

Effects on Betting Outcomes:

Slower passing and reduced control: The effectiveness weakens in squads using fast intricate passing (Brazil or Argentina), producing fewer scored goals and increasing value for under goals soccer bets.

Higher chances of defensive mistakes: Rainy weather conditions can trigger mistake-prone goalkeeping situations which combine with defensive errors to produce unexpected scoring opportunities. The betting market shows BTTS as a wise wager possibility.

Set-piece dominance: Games played under moisture-drenched fields end up having excessive fouls and set-pieces which makes “corners over 9.5” bets alongside set-piece goals valuable betting options.

4. Windy Conditions

The play dynamics change during matches in locations such as Uruguay, Chile or Argentina’s coastal regions because strong offshore winds alter the trajectory of the ball.

Effects on Betting Outcomes:

Unpredictable aerial balls: Because of reduced accuracy in long passes controls teams who excel in advanced air-game performance gain competitive advantages and increase match unpredictability.

Challenging conditions for goalkeepers: The presence of wind makes goalkeepers prone to errors because it leads to incorrect assessments of how long-range shots and crosses travel.

Lower-scoring games: Multiple teams switch their approach to safer ground game operations during windy matches, which decreases their chances of successfully attacking. The bet on fewer than 1.5 goals scored during the first half may yield profitable returns.

Best Betting Strategies for Weather Conditions in Copa América

Check Weather Forecasts Before Betting

Evaluate match locations together with expected weather forecasts to understand potential gameplay outcomes.

Consider Team Adaptability

Several teams, together with their players, show greater competency in specific environmental conditions. Brazil reaches peak performance levels within humid weather conditions yet Bolivia and Ecuador show superior performance at high altitudes.

Live Betting Opportunities

There’s a betting opportunity after tracking how teams respond to weather throughout their game’s initial 15 minutes before placing any wagers.

The late-game goal market becomes more profitable when turf resistance diminishes during hot and difficult weather conditions.

Heat and humidity create defensive mistakes towards the end of a match which lets smart bettors predict more than 0.5 goals during the last 10 minutes.

Monitoring Weather Patterns

Teams that modify their formations and style of play according to environmental factors create changes in expected match outcomes including total goals scored along with corner and possession-based betting results.

Successful Copa América betway betting requires bettors to operate through dependable platforms. Betway enables users to make informed betting choices through detailed match statistics, expert analysis, and live betting prospects amid changing weather conditions and game developments.

Incorporating weather analysis into your betway betting strategy gives you an advantage and higher your odds of making money during Copa América 2025. 

 

Haitian-Born Philadelphia Eagles Player Will Also Get A Super Bowl Ring

News Americas, New York, NY, February 09, 2025: Caribbean immigrant and Haitian-born Lewis Cine may not have taken the field at Super Bowl LIX, but he is now officially a Super Bowl champion as well. As part of the Philadelphia Eagles’ inactive roster, Cine watched from the sidelines as his team dominated the defending champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, with a commanding 40-22 victory at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The win secures Cine a coveted Super Bowl ring along with the other members of the team.

Lewis Cine of the Philadelphia Eagles, l, was born in Haiti and is now a Super Bowl champ as well.

Born on October 5, 1999, in Haiti, Cine immigrated to the United States at the age of four, first settling in Florida before moving to Everett, Massachusetts. A standout high school football player, he was named Massachusetts Defensive Player of the Year by USA Today as a junior. He later transferred to Trinity Christian School in Texas for his senior year, where he was coached by NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders before committing to play college football at the University of Georgia.

At Georgia, Cine quickly made his mark as a top defensive talent. In 2021, he played a crucial role in leading the Bulldogs to a National Championship, earning Defensive MVP honors in the title game. His stellar performance propelled him to the 2022 NFL Draft, where he was selected 32nd overall by the Minnesota Vikings.

Cine’s NFL journey has been marked by challenges. His rookie season was cut short by a devastating compound fracture, limiting him to just 10 games over two seasons with the Vikings. After being released by Minnesota, he was initially expected to sign with the New York Jets but ultimately landed with the Buffalo Bills. However, it was the Philadelphia Eagles who signed him off the Bills’ practice squad to their active roster on January 8, 2025.

While Cine has yet to see game action for the Eagles, the team appears to have plans for him beyond the Super Bowl. Whether he secures a bigger role next season remains to be seen, but his perseverance and dedication have already brought him to football’s grandest stage.

With his Super Bowl ring now set, Cine proudly represents Haiti and the Caribbean in the NFL, proving that resilience and determination can pave the way to success. Go Eagles!

Jalen Hurts #1 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after beating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 to win Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome on February 09, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Countdown Begins For Team Jamaica Bickle’s 31st Year At The Penn Relays

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Feb. 21, 2025: As Team Jamaica Bickle, (TJB), approaches its 31st year of service at the Penn Relays, preparations are in full swing for another successful year of supporting Caribbean athletes. Founded by Jamaican immigrant advocate Irwine Clare, O.D., the non-profit continues its mission of providing vital assistance to athletes and coaches competing in Philadelphia.

The countdown is on to another Labor of Love gala from Team Jamaica Bickle. (TJB image)

To support its efforts, TJB will host the 2025 “Black Tie Gowns & Sneakers” 3.1 Labor of Love Gala Fundraising Luncheon on Sunday, April 13, at Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury, New York, starting at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $200 per seat, with early bird tickets available for $175 until February 28th.

The gala promises entertainment, awards, special guests, and surprises, all under the theme “Our Athletes, Our Ambassadors.” Clare emphasized TJB’s ongoing commitment to athlete welfare, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all delegations. “The core of our efforts has and continues to be the welfare of our athletes,” said Clare.

For tickets and updates, visit teamjamaicabickle.com.

The 2025 Penn Relays will take place from April 24-26 in Philadelphia.

Haitian Woman Wins 2025 Arnold International Bikini Competition

News Americas, New York, NY, March 6, 2025: Haitian fitness athlete Vania Auguste made history on March 1, 2025, by winning the prestigious Arnold International Bikini Competition in Columbus, Ohio, becoming the first Black woman and first Haitian to claim the coveted title.

Auguste was among 10 elite athletes competing for the title, but she emerged victorious, standing center stage as the 2025 Bikini International champion. This major win solidifies her status as one of the top contenders for the Bikini Olympia, scheduled for October 9-12, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Haitian national Vania Auguste is the 2025 Bikini International champion. (L’Union Suite image/Instagram)

2025 Bikini International Top Six Results:

Vania Auguste

Aimee Delgado

Ashlyn Little

Maria Acosta

Ariana Brothers

Jasmine Gonzalez

The event also marked a significant moment in bodybuilding history, as two-time Olympia champion Angelica Teixeira made her final competition appearance. Teixeira, a former two-time Bikini International winner, was honored on stage for her achievements and contributions to the sport.

Vania Auguste is the first Haitian and First Black woman to win the contest.

A Shocking Victory

While Auguste is a respected name in the fitness industry, her victory was considered an upset, as Aimee Delgado was widely favored to win the competition. However, Auguste’s outstanding physique, presentation, and stage presence ultimately secured her the championship.

This triumph also means automatic qualification for Auguste to compete at the 2025 Bikini Olympia, where she will go head-to-head with the world’s best athletes in the category.

Auguste’s win is a monumental achievement not only for her career but also for Haiti, as she becomes the first Haitian athlete to claim an Arnold Classic title – one of the most prestigious events in bodybuilding. Her victory serves as an inspiration for Caribbean athletes looking to break barriers in the world of fitness and bodybuilding.

With this historic milestone, Auguste is now a name to watch as she prepares for her Bikini Olympia debut later this year.

Cricket West Indies Names New CEO

News Americas, New York, NY, December 16, 2024: Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced the appointment of Chris Dehring as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), ushering in what officials describe as a transformative chapter for West Indies cricket. Dehring, a renowned Jamaican born entrepreneur and media innovator, will officially assume his role on February 1, 2025.

The announcement followed a global search process that attracted over 50 applicants from Europe, Australia, Afghanistan, India, and the Caribbean. CWI’s President, Dr. Kishore Shallow, described Dehring as “the best of the best,” highlighting his extensive track record of success across business, media, and cricket administration.

“Chris Dehring represents the best of the best—an innovator, strategist, business magnate, and passionate advocate for West Indies cricket,” Dr. Shallow said. “His return as an executive at West Indies cricket signals the dawn of an exciting new era as we work to reclaim our position as a dominant force in world cricket.”

Dehring is widely recognized as the founder of SportsMax, the Caribbean’s first sports television broadcaster, which reshaped the region’s media landscape by airing global events such as the FIFA World Cup and the NBA. He also co-founded Dehring, Bunting & Golding, Jamaica’s first investment bank, which became a financial powerhouse before being acquired by Scotiabank.

Additionally, his entrepreneurial ventures include launching ReadyTV, Jamaica’s first digital broadcast television service, and ReadyNET, the country’s first satellite internet provider.

Dehring’s contributions to cricket are well-established, having served as Managing Director and CEO of ICC Cricket World Cup 2007, where he successfully organized one of the most complex multi-nation sporting events in the Caribbean’s history.

In a statement, Dehring expressed enthusiasm for his return to West Indies cricket leadership.

“West Indies cricket has always held a special place in my heart,” Dehring said. “As a unifying force and a symbol of pride for our region, I am honored to return to an organization that holds great significance to our people. Together with the CWI team and stakeholders, I am committed to driving innovation, fostering talent, and reigniting the passion for West Indies cricket, both at home and globally.”

Dehring’s vision and expertise are expected to play a pivotal role in the resurgence of West Indies cricket, a sport deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the region.