The surprising reason Antonio won’t be playing for Jamaica against the USMNT

Jamaican head coach Steve McClaren has confirmed that Michail Antonio and Leon Dixon will miss Monday's Concacaf Nations League quarter-final against the United States.

Michail Antonio's absence deals a major blow to Jamaica when they take on the United States in a decisive Concacaf Nations League quarter-final at Citypark in St. Louis. The West Ham United striker was ruled out, along with Leon Dixon, after both players lost their passports, making it too late to obtain US work visas.

Antonio, who scored five goals in 21 games for Jamaica, also missed the first leg of the tie (a 1-0 defeat) due to suspension. The Reggae Boyz must now try to reverse the deficit without their leading striker.

“Antonio and Dixon lost their passports, and it was too late to replace them and obtain visas to travel to the US,” explained McClaren, the former Manchester United assistant manager, as he presented his side's line-up discussed the second leg.

Jamaica searches for a lifeline amid challenges

The Jamaican side, still reeling from a winless Copa América campaign, have found some rhythm in the Concacaf Nations League with a four-match unbeaten streak before losing to the United States in the first leg. Knocking out the tournament favorites on their home turf would mark a major turnaround for Jamaica's fortunes on the big stage, although they will have to make do without Antonio and injured defender Ethan Pinnock.

Key players like Demarai Gray and Leon Bailey are now tasked with leading Jamaica's attacking attack. A single Jamaican goal could disrupt the momentum of the match, putting the pressure on the heavily favored American team.

With the stakes high, Monday's match promises a gripping showdown as the underdogs look to rewrite the odds against one of Concacaf's strongest teams.