A 1-0 victory over El Salvador and a crucial last-minute goal by the United States against Costa Rica clinched Honduras’ place in South Africa next year. It was a close call though as they only secured their third-place finish in the group thanks to a superior goal difference to the Costa Ricans. It is only the second time they have qualified for the finals, the other being in 1982 – and it has all happened while Honduras has been in turmoil following a military coup in June.
Honduras are a rapidly improving side, boasting a number of players who ply their trade in Europe, including Tottenham midfielder Wilson Palacios and Wigan duo Hendry Thomas and Maynor Figueroa. Reaching the finals was a major feat for the side in the circumstances but it would be a monumental achievement for them to progress beyond the first round in South Africa.
Manager: Reinaldo Rueda
Key player: Wilson Palacios
Best: Round one (1982)
World ranking: 37