San Pedro Sula, Honduras – Honduras’ hopes for an early lead in 2026 World Cup qualifying took a hit Thursday, as a scoreless draw against Costa Rica at Estadio Francisco Morazán allowed Haiti to leapfrog them in Group C of the Concacaf playoffs.
honduras, under coach Reinaldo Rueda, failed to capitalize on home-field advantage despite a determined effort against a staunch Costa Rican defense led by Miguel “El Piojo” Herrera. The result leaves Los Catrachos with 5 points, now trailing Haiti – who secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Nicaragua – on goal difference. This shift in standings significantly impacts Honduras’ path to qualification for the expanded 2026 tournament,which will feature 48 teams.
Haiti’s dominant performance, fueled by goals from Duckens Nazon (12′), Danley Jean Jacques (35′), and Louicius Don Deedson (90+2′), propelled them to the top of Group C with 5 points and a +3 goal difference, surpassing Honduras’ +2. Costa Rica remains in third place with 3 points, while Nicaragua sits at the bottom with 1 point.
The next round of qualifying matches on Monday, October 13, will see Honduras host Haiti at 6:00 PM local time, and Nicaragua travel to face Costa Rica at 8:00 PM. These games will be crucial in determining the group’s frontrunners as the competition intensifies.
