URTV24 SPORT- Honduras is set to clash with Costa Rica in a crucial World Cup 2026 qualifying match at Estadio Francisco Morazan. The game, part of the third round of North Central America’s qualifying campaign, sees Honduras aiming to solidify their lead in Group C. Meanwhile, Costa Rica is eager to bounce back from a shaky start.
Honduras’ Strong Defensive Record
Honduras enters the match with momentum, driven by a solid defensive performance that has propelled them to the top of their group. Their quest for a first World Cup appearance since 2014 is fueled by an impressive streak of four consecutive clean sheets in the qualifying stages. At home, they remain unbeaten, making them a formidable opponent.
Under the guidance of coach Reinaldo Rueda, who previously led them to the 2010 finals, Honduras has shown resilience. The team has suffered only one defeat in their last six competitive matches, highlighting their stability and tactical discipline. Their ability to score early in matches has been a key factor in their success, with 11 of their 14 goals in the second and third qualifying stages coming in the first half.
Costa Rica’s Quest for Consistency
Costa Rica’s journey in this qualifying phase has been marked by inconsistency. Despite aiming for a fourth consecutive World Cup appearance, they have struggled to maintain leads. In both of their third-round matches, they scored first but were subsequently pegged back, reflecting a recurring theme of failing to capitalize on early advantages.
The team’s recent form has been underwhelming, with Miguel Herrera’s squad on a four-match winless run across all competitions. However, they have shown resilience on the road, with their only defeat in normal time this year against a CONCACAF opponent being a 3-0 loss to the USA in January.
Team News and Potential Lineups
Honduras has called up five players – Nayrobi Vargas, Leonardo Posadas, Denis Melendez, Deyron Martinez, and Luis Ortiz – who are all seeking their first senior international appearance. In their previous match, Romell Quioto and Alexy Vega scored crucial second-half goals, while goalkeeper Edrick Menjivar secured his second clean sheet of the third round.
Costa Rica made two changes to their starting lineup in their previous game, with Julio Cascante and Kenneth Vargas replacing Francisco Calvo and Brandon Aguilera. Vargas and Alonso Martinez gave them a 2-0 lead against Haiti, but a late goal from Juan Pablo Vargas salvaged a point.
Possible Honduras Starting Lineup:
Menjivar; Najar, F. Flores, Santamaria, Rosales; D. Flores, Arriaga; Quioto, Benguche, Palma; Lozano
Possible Costa Rica Starting Lineup:
Navas; C. Mora, Calvo, Gamboa, J. Vargas, J. Mora; K. Vargas, Galo, Borges; Ugalde, Martinez
Historical Context and Expectations
Costa Rica has historically had the upper hand in this matchup, winning the previous two encounters against Honduras. They have not lost to Honduras on Honduran soil since October 2013, giving them a psychological advantage.
Despite Honduras’ strong defensive record and home advantage, Costa Rica’s resilience and historical success in this fixture suggest they have the ability to secure a positive result. Football analysts predict a tight contest, with Costa Rica potentially edging out a victory due to their experience and ability to fight back in crucial moments.
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