Defender Maynor Figueroa (pictured) has appeared in nine games during Honduras' qualifying campaign for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. (Photo: CA-Images)
SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras – After a 6-0 loss to the host United States on Friday dropped it into last place in the final round of CONCACAF qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Honduras is looking to bounce back quickly.
As a home match against second-place Costa Rica on Tuesday approaches, the current Central American champion is relying on the support of its fans to aid in the recovery process.
“[We’re] very thankful for you all. These are the moments that we actually need,” defender Maynor Figueroa said of the fans. “This moment is difficult. For us, the easiest would have been to stay closed up in the hotel after that embarrassing defeat. But here we are and it is nice to listen to your support. We love you and we promise on Tuesday to gift you all a win.”
With 103 senior team caps to his credit – including a total of six appearances in the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups -- Figueroa is a steadying influence for the Catrachos. He sees the encounter with rival Costa Rica as an opportunity for the team to demonstrate its character.
“This is a group of warriors that is not going to give up because of a loss,” finished Figueroa. “The dream that we have remains intact and we are going to fight until reaching it. Together, we are going to reach it. This is the moment to unite ourselves.”
