Suriname’s journey to the 2026 World Cup took a turn after a defeat against Guatemala. This loss ended their hope for a direct qualification but allowed them to secure a spot in the intercontinental play-offs as one of the best second-placed teams from the CONCACAF region.
Suriname’s Path to the Play-Offs
On Thursday, FIFA conducted the draw for the intercontinental play-offs. Suriname, under the guidance of coach Stanley Menzo, faces Bolivia in March. The play-off matches will be held in Mexico.
Match Details
- Opponent: Bolivia
- Location: Mexico
- Format: Single-match semi-finals
The winner of the Suriname vs. Bolivia match is set to potentially face Iraq in the final round. Iraq, along with DR Congo, were placed directly in the draw due to their rankings.
Bolivia’s Track Record
Bolivia had a challenging time during the South American World Cup qualification series. They finished seventh overall but previously achieved notable victories. Earlier this year, Bolivia recorded a surprising win against both Brazil and Chile on home ground.
Recent Matches
Despite their accomplishments, Bolivia faced setbacks in their recent friendly matches. They suffered losses against Japan (0-3) and South Korea (0-2) in November.
Other Play-Off Matchups
- Jamaica vs. New Caledonia in the other semi-final
The outcomes of these matches will help determine which teams secure a place in the World Cup. As Suriname prepares for this crucial play-off, their supporters remain hopeful for a successful campaign.
