Guyana manager Jamaal Shabazz will miss his side’s World Cup qualifying match against Mexico in Houston due to "personal reasons," although he intends to fulfill his coaching responsibilities on Skype.
According to Shabazz’s assistant, Wayne Dover, the team will use an alternate strategy that will allow Shabazz to control Guyana’s in-game strategy at the BBVA Compass Stadium.
"There are technology systems [Skype] that will allow him to communicate with the group," said Dover. "The players here know the style of play, and I'm sure they'll give a great exhibition," he continued.
Guyana is currently in last place in CONCACAF’s Group B with one point, trailing Mexico, El Salvador and Costa Rica. Mexico has already qualified for the final hexagonal round.
"They're a superior team, they're at all the World Cups," said Dover about his next opponent.
Guyana opened World Cup qualifying with a 3-1 loss over Mexico at Estadio Azteca following goals from Carlos Salcido and Giovani dos Santos during a five-minute span early in the first half.
Reported by the Houston Chronicle, the Latin America nation sold the hosting rights for the Oct. 12 World Cup qualifier against Mexico. BBVA Compass Stadium officials negotiated a deal with the match promoters.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
