Honduras goalkeeper Donis Escober (pictured) played in all eight matches during Olimpia’s run to the 2017 Scotiabank CONCACAF League title. (Photo: Israel Zapateiro)
COMAYAGUA, Honduras – Goalkeeper Donis Escober has put to rest any fears that he might miss Honduras’ World Cup Qualifying intercontinental playoff against Australia.
The Olimpia custodian exited Sunday’s Honduran Apertura scoreless draw against Motagua with a muscle strain, but told reporters Tuesday that he expects to be ready the Russia 2018 showdown.
“I am going to be fine. The injury is minimal,” said Escober. “Each day, it has been improving since Sunday to today. I feel much better and, most importantly, is that we’re already in therapy. I left the match more as a precaution.”
The news will surely be a relief to head coach Jorge Luis Pinto, who is already without another injured goalkeeper -- Luis Lopez.
The 36-year-old Escober featured in 12 of Honduras’ 16 matches during CONCACAF qualifying, including the key 3-2 win over visiting Mexico on October 10, the last day of Hexagonal play.
“I feel motivated being in the national team again and hoping to quickly be 100 percent,” he finished. “I’m getting treatment and I hope to be able to work as soon as possible to prepare myself well.”
Last week, Escober helped Olimpia capture the inaugural Scotiabank CONCACAF League title, saving Michael Barquero’s effort during the penalty kick phase, after the series ended 1-1 on aggregate.
Honduras will host Australia on November 10 in the series opener at the Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula.
After recording a clean sheet 1-0 win in the second leg, Escober saved a penalty kick in their 4-1 shootout victory to help Olimpia qualify for a 10th consecutive Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League.
