The Cayman Islands National Football team is now in Suriname, settling their nerves and reviewing their tactics ahead of their big match later today.

The burdens of almost 60,000 football fans will be placed on their shoulders as they fight to qualify for the World Cup 2014 in Brazil.

The crucial opening game of the campaign will see both teams aiming to draw first blood.

Despite leaping 22 places, in 2008 from 183 to 161 in the FIFA rankings, the young Cayman team desperately needs a win to cement the continued support of its fan base.

But the Surinamese will not be easy pickings for the Caymanians, and will be aggressively looking to secure a win with their home advantage.

Captain Ian Lindo said: “I am extremely proud to be captain of the national team.  It is my first time as captain at this level, and I will be playing my role with pride. I have a lot of confidence in my team. We have trained together for a long time, under the instructions of coach, Carl Brown, and our fitness instructor, Thiago Cunha.  We are not going to allow their efforts go in vain.”

Defensive midfielder James Ebanks said the support of the country is needed if they are to progress to Brazil.

He said: “We need total support from the Caymanian community. We need a better fan base and we are one and should not be putting down each other.

“We should be a supportive unit encouraging each other whether we win or lose. We can do it. The potential is there.”

Suriname enjoyed direct football connections with Holland as they were once under the colony of the Dutch Nation.

Top class and international acclaimed footballers that emerged from the Surinamese/ Netherlands connection, includes: Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Ryan Babel.

The Caymanian delegation to Paramaribo, Suriname is being led by team Manager Mr. Mark Campbell, and Head coach, Mr. Carl Brown.

The Cayman Islands team will return on Sunday ahead of their match with El Salvador on Tuesday.

The second leg of their two- match fixture with Suriname will be held here at home on Friday.