Bermuda Football Association (BFA) president Larry Mussenden is confident the Island's Under-17 national squad can be successful in next week's International Youth Tournament.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's opening fixture against Canada, the president said he had "every ounce of faith and confidence" in the Island's young players and he believed they would shine.

Bermuda are hosting this year's round-robin tournament that has matches slated for Sunday, Monday and Wednesday evenings, culminating with the finals next Friday night.

All matches are being staged at the National Sports Centre.

Bermuda will also be competing against Jamaica and Barbados - two of the teams the local squad could come up against during the Youth World Cup qualifiers next fall.

"I know that they will meet the expectations of their coaches and the Bermuda football family and public," said a confident Mussenden.

"That is what I have asked of them and that's what I know that they will deliver.

"I have been to several of their training sessions and the technical side I have left in the more than capable hands of the coaching staff. But I have observed that the team have come together and presented themselves in a very organised manner."

Mussenden also noted that the team's spirits and morale remained "extremely high" and that he anticipated this to ultimately translate into success throughout the tournament.

"The camaraderie is definitely there and I also know that they will do everybody proud."

The president urged local fans to come out and support the young team and their opponents during the four-day tournament.

"I would like to encourage everyone to come out and see a host of of goals in these games."

Meanwhile, Under-17 national coach Kenny Thompson said his team would be gunning for glory.

"The motivation and the will to win as an athlete must always be there and that's very important with the youth," said Thompson.

Kyle Outerbridge will captain Bermuda's team to be chosen from a squad of 20 players.

Jamaica and Barbados will kick off the tournament on Sunday after the opening ceremonies at 7 p.m.

Bermuda meet Canada at 9 p.m.