Jaden Masters On Football, Next Match & More
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Jaden Masters hopes her injury nightmare is behind her after rediscovering top form for the Bermuda women’s national team.
Despite being only 20, Masters has torn her ACL [anterior cruciate ligament] four times and undergone six knee surgeries – but insists she feels fitter and stronger than ever.
Masters spent a year on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury against Jamaica in a World Cup qualifier in February 2022 but made a sensational return to action against the Dominican Republic, scoring twice in a 2-0 win at home in the W Gold Cup qualifying opener last month.
Her first goal was named fifth best during the September window of the W Gold Cup fixtures by Concacaf.
“The Dominican Republic game was one to remember,” Masters told Bernews. “It was a vital game, and we knew we had to win it.
“We know the Dominican Republic, on paper, are our toughest opponent in the group.
“It was the first time I’d played in Bermuda since 2018 – it was one for the books!
“It was a confidence booster I needed – this is the best I’ve felt.”
Bermuda are top of group C League B after drawing 1-1 against Barbados in Bridgetown on Friday and face them again at the Flora Duffy Stadium tomorrow [October 31].
The winner of the group will advance to a play-off where they will meet one of the second-place teams from League A, with the victors advancing to the inaugural W Gold Cup in the United States from February 20 to March 10.
“We’re in a great space, and this team is more than capable of making it happen,” said Masters, who plays at the collegiate level for the University of Houston in Texas. “It would be great for the team to qualify but also for Bermuda as a whole.”
The versatile player, who has featured as a winger in recent matches, said she is happy to fulfil any role required of her by coach Naquita Robinson.
“Coach Naquita knows even if we are missing certain players, she can pull others in who can do just as good a job,” Masters said. “She always says it’s a headache she doesn’t mind!
“Sometimes I miss playing in defence, but it’s always fun to play as an attacker and score two goals!
“Given my injury history, I’m just enjoying being on the field, and I’m ready to do the job wherever I play.”
That was some goal! Surely these young ladies can eventually qualify for the Women’s World Cup. Bermuda certainly has the talent.