San Jose, California - In a thrilling Concacaf Gold Cup 2025 Group C match held on June 20, 2025, at PayPal Park in San Jose, California, Jonathan Russell's header propelled Jamaica to a 2-1 lead over Guadeloupe. The goal came in the final moments of the first half, providing a crucial advantage for the Reggae Boyz as they sought their first points of the tournament.

Both Jamaica and Guadeloupe entered the match hungry for a victory after suffering defeats in their opening games. Jamaica had been narrowly edged out by Guatemala with a 1-0 score, while Panama defeated Guadeloupe 5-2.

The game began with a physical start, as Guadeloupe's tough play resulted in an early yellow card for Ambrose. Despite Jamaica maintaining possession for a significant portion of the opening minutes, Guadeloupe appeared confident on the ball. An early opportunity arose for Jamaica when a goal-kick from Andre Blake found Demarai Gray, who made a darting run towards the box. Gray's left-footed shot beat Guadeloupe's goalkeeper but ricocheted off the inside of the near post, denying Jamaica an early lead.

Guadeloupe struck first with a goal from Amborse, putting Jamaica on the back foot. Jamaica responded, increasing the pressure as halftime approached. Their efforts paid off when Leon Bailey found the net, leveling the score. A lobbed ball fell to Brown, who passed it to Bailey, who finished with his left foot.

In the dying moments of the first half, Jamaica continued to push forward. Gray made a play on the left flank, cutting in and floating a ball into the box. Jonathan Russell rose above the defense, heading the ball into the far corner, leaving the Guadeloupe goalkeeper with no chance. The referee blew the whistle for halftime immediately after the goal, sending Jamaica into the break with a 2-1 lead.

The goal was Russell's first of the tournament and added to his goal tally. Russell's role in the midfield was already being discussed before the match, with questions of whether he would play as a six or an eight. With Hayden's absence, he was considered the main man in the midfield.

The second half promises further excitement as both teams vie for a crucial victory in Group C of the Concacaf Gold Cup 2025.