Honduras beat Nicaragua 2-0 to top Group C in World Cup qualifiers, remaining unbeaten and boosting hopes for a fourth World Cup appearance
Tegucigalpa
Honduras claimed a 2-0 victory over Nicaragua in the Central American World Cup qualifying final round on Tuesday night, moving to the top of Group C. Rommel Quioto struck in the 47th minute, while Alexy Vega sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal, keeping Honduras unbeaten in the campaign.
The Catrachos, aiming for their fourth World Cup appearance, previously qualified for Spain 1982, South Africa 2010, and Brazil 2014. This latest result gives them four points after two matches, placing them ahead of Costa Rica and Haiti. Costa Rica and Haiti share second with two points each, while Nicaragua sits at the bottom with one.
Costa Rica, a regional powerhouse, let slip a lead once again, settling for a 3-3 draw against Haiti. The Ticos, who reached the quarterfinals in Brazil 2014, have appeared in four of the last five World Cups but remain under pressure in this qualifying cycle.
Elsewhere in Group B, Jamaica kept momentum with a 2-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago. Bailey Cadamartedi opened the scoring in the 36th minute, and Jon Russell added a second in the 57th. With two victories, Jamaica remains at the top of Group B. The Reggae Boyz, coached by former England manager Steve McLaren, are seeking their second World Cup appearance after debuting in France 1998.
Curacao also celebrated a key result in Group B, edging Bermuda 3-2 thanks to two goals from Sheffield United striker Tahith Chong.
In total, twelve teams across three groups are battling for three direct qualification spots, while hosts United States, Canada, and Mexico are already assured of their World Cup berths.
