The Concacaf final round of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is heating up as Nicaragua faces Haiti. This crucial match will take place at the Estadio Nacional de Fútbol in Managua, Nicaragua. Both teams are eager for their first win after lackluster starts in the final round. Nicaragua has experienced an early setback with a draw and a loss, including a 2-0 defeat to Honduras in their previous match.
Nicaragua and Haiti Seek First Victory
Haiti, like Nicaragua, is also searching for its initial victory. The team has registered two consecutive draws, with their latest match resulting in a thrilling 3-3 tie against Costa Rica. This remarkable performance featured a historic hat-trick from Duckens Nazon, who, at 31 years, 5 months, and 2 days, became the oldest Haitian player to score a hat-trick in World Cup qualifiers. Nazon is currently tied as one of the top scorers in these qualifiers, with five goals to his name.
Historic Rivalry
- This match marks the second encounter between Nicaragua and Haiti in World Cup qualifying rounds.
- The overall head-to-head record stands at six wins for Haiti, one for Nicaragua, and two draws.
- The last qualifying match ended with Haiti defeating Nicaragua 1-0 on June 8, 2021.
This matchup is significant as it is the first time Nicaragua has faced a Caribbean team in the final qualifying round. Historically, Nicaragua has met various Central American teams but has yet to secure a victory against Haiti in World Cup qualifiers. Their past encounters include:
| Opponent | Result | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Haiti | 0-1 Loss | June 8, 2021 |
| Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | 2-2 Draw, 1-4 Loss | 2006 WC Qualifiers |
| Dominica | 1-0 Win, 2-0 Win | 2014 WC Qualifiers |
| Jamaica | 3-2 Win, 0-2 Loss | 2018 WC Qualifiers |
Conclusion
As Nicaragua and Haiti prepare to clash, both teams are eager to turn their fortunes around in the Concacaf final qualifying round. With the pressure mounting, this match is expected to deliver exciting football as the teams vie for that elusive first victory. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as these two nations look to make their mark in World Cup history.
