Honduras’ hopes of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup next year was dealt a huge blow on Saturday after they conceded a late goal in a 1-1 draw at Costa Rica.
Eddie Hernandez gave the team a 66th minute lead but they could not hang on for three crucial points following Kendall Watson’s late leveller for the already qualified hosts.
Costa Rica had earlier sealed qualification on Friday without kicking a ball after USA defeated Panama 4-0 however that didn’t stop the team from denying Honduras in their quest to also seal a Russia 2018 spot.
A win would have taken Honduras to the playoff position (4th) with 12 points but they stay in 5th position with 10 points while rivals for a World Cup spot, Panama, stay in 4th spot with 10 points with better goal difference. USA occupy the last automatic qualification spot (3rd) with 12 points.
Standings:
- Mexico 21 points (Qualified)
- Costa Rica 16 points (Qualified)
- USA 12 points
- Panama 10 points
- Honduras 10 points
- Trinidad and Tobago 3 points
