Molino & Yorke: Trinidad’s Dual-Generational World Cup Charge
With decisive World Cup qualifiers looming against St. Kitts & Nevis followed by Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago skipper Kevin Molino discusses the squad’s objectives, the experience of being coached by national hero Dwight Yorke, and how the iconic 2006 World Cup team continues to motivate current players.
From Fan to Captain: Molino’s Full-Circle Journey
Fifteen-year-old Kevin Molino watched in awe as Dwight Yorke led Trinidad and Tobago to a historic draw against Sweden at Germany 2006. Nearly two decades later, the 34-year-old midfielder now wears the armband under Yorke’s management – a poetic twist fueling the nation’s 2026 World Cup hopes.
“Putting on this shirt means everything,” Molino told FIFA. “Hearing our anthem alongside teammates I’ve grown up with – there’s no greater honor than representing 1.5 million Trinidadians.”
Yorke’s Revolution: Legend Turned Tactician
Since returning from international retirement, Molino has embraced Yorke’s transformative approach:
- Human-first leadership: “He connects individually – understands us beyond football.”
- Legendary mentorship: Assistant coach Russell Latapy (another 2006 hero) provides tactical wisdom
- Next-gen education: Younger players study Yorke’s storied career through film sessions
“Not sure they grasp how special he was,” Molino chuckled. “But we’re showing them YouTube highlights!”
Qualification Push: More Than Football
With four points from their opening qualifiers, T&T’s campaign hinges on June’s clash at Hasely Crawford Stadium. Molino emphasizes:
- Immediate focus: “St. Kitts first – we need a statement win.”
- National unity: “Our country needs this. Football unites us when nothing else can.”
- Legacy building: Qualifying would honor 2006 heroes like Stern John and the late coach Leo Beenhakker
The 2026 Vision
If successful, Molino envisions:
- Historic captaincy: Leading T&T at a co-hosted World Cup
- Carnival-level celebrations: “Maybe a month-long party – our people deserve it!”
- Youth pathway validation: Demonstrating CONCACAF’s emerging nations belong on football’s biggest stage
Final Word
As Beenhakker once told Molino: “Take Trinidad back to the World Cup.” With Yorke’s guidance and a squad blending experience and youth, the Soca Warriors are writing their next chapter – one qualifying match at a time.
