An evening of euphoria, disbelief, and pure pride. Tuesday, November 18, 2025, will be etched forever in Haiti’s sporting history. The national team, the Grenadiers, officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a night of breathtaking calculations.
Victory against Nicaragua was essential
The mission was straightforward yet perilous: defeat Nicaragua—a match played in Curaçao due to the security crisis gripping Port-au-Prince. Despite this forced exile, the Grenadiers, buoyed by an entire nation, entered the battle with fierce determination. Goals from Don Deedson Louicius (9th minute) and Ruben Providence (45th minute) secured a historic 2-0 victory and sealed Haiti’s place in the North American World Cup.
The anxious wait and the Costa Rican miracle
For the dream to become reality, Haiti needed a favor: a draw between Costa Rica and Honduras. For 90 agonizing minutes, an entire country held its breath. News from the pitch was followed minute by minute, hearts beating in rhythm with the ball.
Then the miracle came. The final whistle sounded in Costa Rica, sealing the scoreline at 0-0. The news, relayed at lightning speed, triggered an explosion of joy among Haitian supporters in Curaçao and was greeted with quiet celebration in certain Port-au-Prince neighborhoods.
A historic and symbolic qualification
This combination of results propels Haiti directly to the final tournament of the 2026 World Cup. This is a historic qualification—the first since 1974—ending more than 50 years of waiting and dashed hopes. In 1974, Haiti made an impact by scoring its first-ever World Cup goal against Italy. Today, a new generation of Grenadiers opens a new chapter, determined to write its own legend.
This qualification transcends sport. In a difficult socioeconomic context, it serves as a powerful catalyst for national unity and pride. It demonstrates the resilience, talent, and mental strength of the Haitian people. Initial reactions from certain Port-au-Prince neighborhoods show that Haitians can unite in shared pure joy.
What comes next? The world awaits the Grenadiers
The path to 2026 will be long, but the hardest part is done. Haiti, the island with an indomitable heart, will now prepare for its journey to the world’s greatest sporting tournament. The draw, preparations, and the dream of facing the greatest nations in world football now await the Grenadiers.
One thing is certain: in summer 2026, the entire world will have its eyes on Haiti, a nation of proud and talented footballers, ready to capture hearts on the global stage.
About Haiti’s national team: Nicknamed “The Grenadiers,” Haiti’s national football team represents the country in international soccer competitions. Their last World Cup participation dates to 1974 in West Germany.
