On Thursday, February 13, 2025, Haiti’s U-17 national football team, the Grenadiers, continued their impressive form in the CONCACAF qualifiers for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025. Facing the “Benna Boys” of Antigua and Barbuda at Estadio Cementos Progreso in Guatemala City, the Grenadiers secured a decisive 3-0 victory.
Match Highlights:
- Opening Goal: In the 14th minute, forward Franco Célestin confidently converted a penalty, setting the tone for Haiti’s dominance.
- Doubling the Lead: Midfielder Emerson Laissé extended the advantage by successfully converting a second penalty in the 34th minute.
- Sealing the Win: Laissé showcased his composure again, netting a third penalty in the 82nd minute, cementing the 3-0 scoreline.
Starting Lineup:
Coach Eddy César maintained the same lineup that delivered a commanding 5-0 win against Saint Vincent and the Grenadines:
- Goalkeeper: Clifford Gené (Cosmopolites SC, Haiti)
- Defenders: Arthur Alcimé (Les Cayes FC, Haiti), Wasson Thermoncy (AFF-FFV, Switzerland), Dieuvens Kenson Rezil (Violette AC, Haiti), Miguel Joseph (Captain) (Exafoot FC, Haiti)
- Midfielders: Theo Lacombe (Sabadell FC, Spain), Emerson Laissé (Mount Pleasant Academy, Jamaica), Medinel Zamor (Leg-A-Z World FC, Florida, USA)
- Forwards: Nicolaï Pierre (Orlando City SC, Florida, USA), Franco Célestin (Mount Pleasant Academy, Jamaica), Djouby Jean Philippe (Mercury FC, France)
Group E Standings:
After two matches, the Group E standings are as follows:
- Haiti: 6 points, 8 goals scored, 0 conceded (+8 goal difference)
- Guatemala: 6 points, 7 goals scored, 1 conceded (+6 goal difference)
- Antigua & Barbuda: 0 points, 1 goal scored, 5 conceded (-4 goal difference)
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: 0 points, zero goals scored, 10 conceded (-10 goal difference)
Upcoming Decisive Match:
The Grenadiers will face Guatemala on Sunday, February 16, in a match that will determine the group leader. A draw will suffice for Haiti to secure its third historic qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, following its participation in 2007 and 2019.
Coach’s Perspective:
Before the qualifiers, Coach Eddy César expressed confidence in his team’s preparation and prospects. He emphasized the importance of acclimatization and cohesion: “I estimate our chance at about 90%. And when we get there, we will fill the 10%!”
Looking Ahead:
Haiti’s U-17 squad has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the qualifiers. With a blend of domestic and international talents, the team is poised to impact the global stage significantly. The upcoming match against Guatemala will be pivotal in their journey toward Qatar 2025.
