Honduras’ Brayan Beckles (white jersey) has appeared in 19 all-time World Cup qualifying matches. (Photo: Mexsport)
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras – With 52 caps under his belt, defender Brayan Beckeles has played a lot of big games for Honduras.
As the final round of CONCACAF qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup approaches its conclusion, he knows what’s at stake for the Catrachos (2W-3D-3L, 9 points), who sit in fifth place with encounters remaining against second-place Costa Rica (15 pts./October 6, away) and first-place Mexico (18 pts./October 10, home).
“The wish that Honduras has is to earn qualification,” said the 31-year-old Beckeles. “In these two matches, we are playing for the entire four-year process. We have to try to give the best for the Honduran people.”
Honduras’ pair of matches are the most difficult of any of the six teams. Making matters more hazardous is that Costa Rica is also trying to seal its place at Russia 2018, needing one point to guarantee its ticket.
“Costa Rica is a national team that deserves respect,” Beckeles finished. “They’ve been doing things well. They are [almost] qualified for the World Cup, but we are clear and strong. Here we are 11 versus 11.”
In their previous Hexagonal meeting, Honduras and Costa Rica drew 1-1 on March 28, 2017.
