The Jamaican men’s national team opened CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying on a winning note with Oxford United’s Greg Leigh playing a key role in both victories last week. 

Here, freelance sports writer Larry Henry Jr takes a closer look at how the U's defender performed during the games.

Leigh started in both of the Reggae Boyz’s qualifying matches, logging 90 minutes apiece against the Dominican Republic and Dominica respectively, Henry Jr writes. 

Jamaica joins Guatemala as the only teams in Group E with six points out of six available.

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The 29-year-old excelled in Jamaica’s 1-0 triumph over the Dominican Republic.

He completed 90 per cent of his passes (37/41), won five of his eight individual duels, made two tackles, and two defensive interceptions. 

Shamar Nicholson’s first-half goal proved to be the winner for Heimir Hallgrimsson’s squad in Kingston. 

Leigh retained his spot on Sunday as the Reggae Boyz escaped a late surge from Dominica to earn a 3-2 road victory.

He created the most offensive chances (two) by any player, while also making six defensive recoveries at left back. 

Nicholson scored twice in the triumph while Kaheim Dixo also found the back of the net. 

Leigh played a vital role in Oxford’s promotion back to the English Football League Championship last season.

After joining from Ipswich Town last August, Leigh totalled 35 appearances in League One, scoring six goals and adding one assist.

It marked the most appearances for Leigh in a season since his 41 during the 2021-22 campaign with Morecambe. 

After debuting for Jamaica in 2020, Leigh has earned 16 caps to date, featuring in CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying and the CONCACAF Nations League. 

Jamaica will aim for a deep run at the upcoming 2024 Copa America tournament, facing Mexico (June 22), Ecuador (June 26), and Venezuela (June 30) respectively. 

Following the competition, Leigh will make his return to Oxford for the start of preseason camp. 

Written by Larry Henry Jr