Sports
Costa Rica Faces Haiti in Crucial World Cup Qualifier
WILLEMSTAD, Curacao — The Costa Rican national soccer team is set to face Haiti in a vital CONCACAF World Cup qualifying match on Thursday, November 13, 2025. The Ticos are aiming to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup as they sit second in Group C with six points, two behind leaders Honduras.
Kickoff is scheduled for 9:00 PM ET at the Ergilo Hato Stadium, with a live broadcast available in Spanish. Costa Rica is looking to carry its momentum after recovering points in recent matches, knowing this double-header could significantly impact their qualification hopes.
Head coach Miguel “Piojo” Herrera has announced a strong roster featuring experienced players such as Keylor Navas, Celso Borges, and Joel Campbell. They hope to lead a new generation of players toward World Cup qualification. The team boasts solid defensive skills with Francisco Calvo and Juan Pablo Vargas, while Borges and Alejandro Bran aim to provide balance in midfield.
Joel Campbell and Manfred Ugalde will spearhead the attack as Costa Rica seeks critical goals. Young talents like Anthony Hernández of Alajuelense are also on the roster, potentially impacting the game positively.
Keylor Navas’ return to the lineup enhances the team’s confidence. His leadership will be crucial, especially in high-stakes situations. In contrast, Haiti remains mathematically alive in their qualification quest, possessing speed and vertical play but struggling defensively, having conceded six goals in four matches.
For Haiti, a victory is essential to maintain their hopes, as they currently have five points. Historically, both teams shared a thrilling 3-3 draw in their last encounter this September. With Costa Rica needing a win to solidify their standings, the stakes are high for both sides.
The outcome of this match will be pivotal as the final qualifying stretch for the World Cup approaches, with Costa Rica needing to perform under pressure to secure a direct pathway to the tournament.
