United States of America (USA) surprisingly missed out on World Cup qualification after they were beaten 2-1 by bottom team Trinidad and Tobago in their final qualifier in the CONCACAF section of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Hosts Trinidad and Tobago raced to a 2-0 first half lead before Borussia Dortmund forward Christian Pulisic pulled one back with two minutes played in the second half. Favourites USA pressed for an equaliser but met firm resistance from the hosts.
Results from other centres meant the team missed out on qualification because of the surprising defeat to Trinidad and Tobago.
Panama took the spot formerly occupied by the Yankees following a controversial 2-1 win over Costa Rica at home. The big moment of the match came in the 52nd minute when Panama star Gabriel Torres equalised after his side had trailed 1-0 from the first half. Replays however showed that the ball didn’t cross the line.
Romain Torres later got the winner for the home side to ensure they secure a place at a FIFA World Cup for the first time.
Honduras can join other CONCACAF participants like Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama via the CONCACAF/Asia Playoffs. They secured a playoff spot with a 3-2 comeback win over already qualified Mexico and will now face Australia in the playoff.
Matchday 10 Results:
Panama 2-1 Costa Rica
Trinidad and Tobago 2-1 USA
Honduras 3-2 Mexico
Final Table:
- Mexico 21 points
- Costa Rica 18 points
- Panama 13 points
- Honduras 13 points
- USA 12 points
- Trinidad and Tobago 6 points
