Hart: World Cup qualification top priority

TT’s only World Cup appearance came in 2006, when they registered a scoreless draw and two losses by the same 2-0 result in three matches.

The current side are seeking to make their own history by earning a place at Russia 2018 when they meet Costa Rica on November 11, to open the final round of CONCACAF qualifying.

“Right now, my focus is getting the team back to a strong level for the two World Cup qualifying games next month in November,” said the 56-year-old.

“When the time comes for the playoffs for the CONCACAF Gold Cup, then we will think about that.

We still have to get the dates for those games because now we are in a situation where we have to playoff with the other second-placed teams.” Last month, TT finished second in their Caribbean Cup Third Round Group to Martinique, necessitating an alternate route to the biennial competition.

Before that matter can be settled, the Soca Warriors want to establish a positive World Cup Qualifying tone.

“We have a lot to do now to get ourselves mentally and physically ready for Costa Rica,” Hart said. “The team has shown that they have the potential to raise the levels to one which we can compete and win games against the top teams in the region and we’ll be focusing on getting back there.” TT are ranked 65th overall, fourth in CONCACAF and number one in the Caribbean, according to the most recent FIFA R