Steve McClaren has resigned as Jamaica manager after failing to qualify for the World Cup automatically. The Reggae Boyz needed to beat the world’s 82nd-ranked nation, Curacao, at home for a place in North America next summer – but drew 0-0. Curacao have beaten Iceland’s 2018 record as the smallest nation ever to qualify for a World CupAFPCuracao have subsequently booked their place at the World Cup for the first time ever, making them the smallest nation in the event’s history, with a population of around 156,115. But for McClaren, it is more major tournament qualification disappointment, as Jamaica will be forced to fight it out in the play-offs.The 64-year-old was infamously in charge of England when the Three Lions failed to qualify for Euro 2008. And following Jamaica’s embarrassment at the hands of Curacao, McClaren quit his job immediately afterwards. He said: “Over the last 18 months I have given everything I have to this job. Leading this team has been one of the greatest honours of my career.“But football is a results business and tonight we have fallen short of our goal, which was to qualify from this group.“It is the responsibility of the leader to step forward, take accountability and make decisions in the best interests of the team.“After deep reflection and an honest assessment of where we are and where we need to go, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Jamaican national team.”He added: “Sometimes the best thing a leader can do is to recognise when a fresh voice, new energy and a different perspective is required to move this team forward.”Curacao’s assistant manager Dean Gorre, who was stepping in for Dick Advocaat, revealed the result had brought McClaren to tears after the match. Jamaica boast ex-Premier League talent, such as Demarai GrayAFPMcClaren was appointed Jamaica manager in July 2024, lasting 16 months in the roleAFPGorre said: “Steve was crying. It affected him that much.”Jamaica has not qualified for a World Cup since 1998, where they were bundled out in the group stage.The island nation’s appearance in France doubles as their sole appearance at the marquee tournament.Under McClaren, Jamaica finished second in Group B of the CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers with 11 points, one point behind Curacao.The Reggae Boyz posted a record of three wins, two draws and a defeat, with the sole loss coming against Curacao on October 11.More to follow.