Jamaica have boosted their squad ahead of Saturday’s Unity Cup final against Nigeria after handing a first senior call-up to Manchester United academy defender Dante Plunkett, Footynaija reports.
The 18-year-old left-back was drafted into Rudolph Speid’s squad following the Reggae Boyz’ 2-0 semi-final victory over India, with the teenager expected to arrive in London just hours before the showdown at The Valley.
Plunkett, who qualifies to play for Jamaica through his family background, is regarded as one of the promising young defenders coming through at Manchester United. He joined the club from Aston Villa in 2024 and featured regularly for United’s Under-18 side during the 2025/26 campaign, making 15 appearances in all competitions.
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His inclusion adds more depth to a youthful Jamaica squad preparing for another meeting with Nigeria after last year’s dramatic Unity Cup final. The Super Eagles lifted the trophy in 2025 after edging the Reggae Boyz 5-4 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw at Brentford.
Nigeria head into this year’s final with momentum after defeating Zimbabwe 2-0 in the semi-finals, thanks to a debut brace from Millwall winger Femi Azeez. Coach Éric Chelle has travelled without several regular stars, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, but the Super Eagles still produced an organised display to reach the final.
Jamaica, meanwhile, impressed against India with experienced players such as Damion Lowe, Isaac Hayden and Dexter Lembikisa leading a squad packed with English-based talent.
Saturday’s encounter in South London will decide the 2026 Unity Cup champions, with Nigeria chasing another title and Jamaica hoping to finally end the Super Eagles’ dominance in the competition.
