Honduras National Team faces Crucial World Cup Qualifier Against Costa Rica
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras – Former Honduras national team player and coach Emilio Izaguirre has issued a rallying cry ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier against Costa rica, emphasizing the potential for the current squad to achieve historic success. Izaguirre expressed hope that the team secures a victory in Costa Rica, aiming for a five-point lead, and then closes out the FIFA date with a win against Haiti in Tegucigalpa.
“Hopefully the two games can be won to be closer to the classification and make history for them, that every Honduras remembers them forever,” Izaguirre stated, reflecting on his desire to have been involved but acknowledging the current players’ chance. “I think it is something very lovely…the boys must make history for their career.”
Izaguirre also offered words of encouragement for newly called-up player Denis Meléndez, praising his humility and energy. “Denis is a very humble boy, who comes from less to more…It is a mixed steering wheel that gives a lot of energy and dynamics to the team, hopefully you can give things in the National Team of Honduras.”
The veteran also staunchly defended forward Choco Lozano against recent criticism,asserting his quality and leadership. “I have always said that Choco Lozano is one of the best leaders Honduras has had…He played in Spain not for being a good person, not for being any player, he is a good footballer and that’s why he is in mexico in Santos Laguna.”
Izaguirre, a passionate supporter of the national team, expressed his confidence in Honduras’ ability to compete, stating, “I am a fan who enjoys seeing the selection of Honduras.” He believes Honduras is evenly matched with Costa Rica, pointing to their performance in the Gold Cup where they defeated Panama and competed strongly against Mexico.
“We have very determining players in Europe, Mexico, MLS,” Izaguirre added. “the one who belittles honduras and all these players does not no about football.” He specifically highlighted the progress of young players like Julián Martínez, who recently moved to Europe after a strong Gold Cup showing.
