Sports

By The Haitian Pulse Editorial Team
June 12, 2025

As the race toward the FIFA World Cup 2026 intensifies, two more South American giants—Brazil and Ecuador—have officially punched their tickets to the global tournament, joining a growing list of nations preparing for the North American football spectacle.

But while much of the world celebrates early qualification, Haiti finds itself on a different path: one of resilience, redemption, and national pride. Despite a crushing 5–1 loss to Curaçao in their final group match, Haiti has earned a spot in the third and final round of CONCACAF qualifiers. For a country long underestimated in international play, the road ahead represents more than football—it symbolizes hope.

South America: A Familiar Dominance

Brazil delivered a narrow yet critical 1–0 victory over Paraguay, thanks to a late strike from Vinícius Jr., securing their spot with flair and history on their side. Ecuador, meanwhile, managed a gritty 0–0 draw against Peru in Lima—enough to guarantee their place at the World Cup. They join Argentina, already qualified, in representing the South American powerhouses.

With just three direct slots remaining in CONMEBOL, Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay are now in a fierce battle to avoid the intercontinental playoff.

Asia and Oceania: Spots Filled, Gaps Closing

Asian nations have already secured six places, including Japan, South Korea, Iran, Australia, Uzbekistan, and Jordan. New Zealand locked in the Oceania berth, continuing its reign as the region’s top contender.

North America & the Caribbean: A Tense but Hopeful Path for Haiti

In CONCACAF, 12 teams have now moved on to the final qualification round:

• Group A: Honduras, Bermuda

• Group B: Costa Rica, Trinidad

• Group C: Curaçao, Haiti

• Group D: Panama, Nicaragua

• Group E: Jamaica, Guatemala

• Group F: Suriname, El Salvador

For Haiti, it was a turbulent qualification window. After an early display of strength, the team suffered a humbling loss to Curaçao. But thanks to earlier victories and goal differential, Haiti held on to second place in Group C.

The upcoming draw for the final round—scheduled later this month—will determine who Haiti faces next. It’s a make-or-break moment that could lead to their first World Cup appearance since 1974.

More Than Football: A Nation’s Quest for Glory

For Haitians, this isn’t just about making it to the World Cup—it’s about reclaiming a sense of unity and purpose on the world stage. With political instability and economic hardships at home, football remains one of the few arenas where the Haitian spirit shines without apology.

And shine we must.

With regional giants like Jamaica, Costa Rica, and Panama looming, Haiti must bring more than talent—it must bring strategy, preparation, and most importantly, the full backing of the diaspora.

The Haitian Pulse Says…

This is the moment to rally behind our team. Whether in Brooklyn, Port-au-Prince, or Miami—our voices matter.

Let’s stand tall for Haiti.

Because every goal scored, every point earned, and every chant shouted from the stands echoes the heartbeat of a nation that refuses to be counted out.

WHO’S IN SO FAR?

HAVE YOUR SAY

Are you hopeful for Haiti’s chances?
Which matchups would you like to see in the final round?
What does World Cup 2026 mean to you?

👇 Drop a comment below. Let your voice shape the Haitian football conversation.

🔎 About The Haitian Pulse

The Haitian Pulse exists to inform, empower, and unite Haitians around the world. In sports, politics, and culture, we remain a platform for action and accountability—for Haitians, by Haitians. As our teams chase glory, we document every step with pride, purpose, and passion.