Honduras goalkeeper Luis Lopez (pictured) has not allowed a goal in two CONCACAF Men's Olympic Qualifying Championship games. (Photo: Mexsport)
CARSON, California – Although it has a group game left to play, Honduras earned a fifth straight trip to the CONCACAF Men’s Olympic Qualifying Championship (CMOQ) semifinals with a 2-0 victory over Costa Rica on Sunday.
The Catrachos are 2W-0D-0L – also overcoming Haiti (1-0) – and will battle defending champion Mexico (2W-0D-0L, 6 points) for the top spot in Group B on Wednesday in Commerce City, Colorado.
Goalkeeper Luis Lopez – a member of Honduras’ roster at the 2014 FIFA World Cup -- has been in the nets for both wins. He’s pleased about what’s transpired thus far, but knows there’s much still to do in order to achieve the objective of securing a place in the 2016 Olympic Games.
“The truth is that we are happy with the work we are doing,” said Lopez, who plays with Real España. “We know that what’s left is most important, but the work of the group, of the team has been very good.”
The 22-year-old is confident that Honduras has the tools to overcome Mexico in what is a rematch of the 2012 final, which was won by the Mexicans 2-1 after extra time.
“We know the next match is going to be very difficult, but we have the people to take it on,” he finished.
Honduras has never beaten Mexico in CMOQ play, posting a draw and four losses in five all-time meetings.
