MIAMI.- Seven is considered a fortunate number by many and if indeed “fortune favors the bold,” then small, but mighty Martinique is due for an auspicious turn in their seventh quest of the Concacaf Gold Cup. The French department island in the Caribbean is eligible to compete as a nation only in regional competition, making the Gold Cup the pinnacle of sporting achievement for Les Matinino, as the squad is known.
Martinique meets Canada to open up their 2021 Gold Cup tournament campaign. In a slightly ironic twist, the island nation of only 436 square miles has a spirited, historic rivalry with its much larger northern neighbor (3.855 million square miles). In 2013, in stunning fashion during group play, Fabrice Reuperne scored in injury time, sending Martinique to a thrilling 1-0 victory over Canada.
Canada was also Martinique’s first-ever opponent in the Gold Cup, during the Martinicans initial participation in 1993. In 2002, the only time thus far when Martinique advanced to the elimination rounds, Canada was again their obstacle to advancement.
The Martinique squad, as ever, put in a spirited effort. Canada only advanced on penalty kicks after the teams finished tied 1-1 in regulation and after extra periods. The 2013 game marks the only time Martinique has managed to defeat Canada in the five games the squads have contested, but all have been close.
Martinique have played in the last two Gold Cups, thus giving much of the squad recent experience in the tournament. That should prove invaluable as they look to advance out of group play.
In the 2017 Gold Cup, forward Kevin Parsemain performed admirably, becoming co-top scorer in the tournament with three goals, including a pair against the eventual champions, the United States. Though he will not be at the 2021 tournament, five members of the current squad, (defenders Jean-Sylvain Babin and Samuel Camille, plus forwards Patrick Burner, Emmanuel Riviere and Kevin Fortune) play for clubs in Europe.
Coach Mario Bocaly has put together an experienced roster for the competition, with numerous players over 30. One notable exception is a 22-year-old forward, Enrick Reuperne. Yes, he is the son of the Martinique hero of 2013. Canada would do well to be wary, or another Reuperne may have a memorable moment at the 2021 Gold Cup.
