Costa Rica urgently needs a win as they take on Nicaragua in the Concacaf 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. The team is looking to keep their hopes alive for a spot in the upcoming World Cup. After three matches in Group C, they have not secured any victories and risk missing out on the tournament.
Under coach Miguel Herrera, Costa Rica drew 1-1 with Nicaragua in September during the opening match. This result felt disappointing for Costa Rica, especially since Nicaragua equalized despite being down to ten players after Jason Coronel received a red card. Now, Costa Rica aims to gain control and improve their position as the qualification stage approaches its critical phase.
Adding to the challenge, Mexico, the United States, and Canada are not participating in this round of qualifiers as they are co-hosting the 2026 World Cup. This situation has made qualifying seem more attainable for Costa Rica, but with their current results, they must secure a win against Nicaragua in this crucial match.
On the other hand, Nicaragua has managed one draw (against Costa Rica) and two losses (to Haiti and Honduras) in the qualifiers, placing them at the bottom of the group and in need of a turnaround. Historically, Costa Rica has had the upper hand in this Central American rivalry, having won 12 out of 14 encounters, with two draws. Nicaragua has yet to claim a victory over Costa Rica.
Keylor Navas of Costa Rica
Costa Rica expected lineup vs Nicaragua
Costa Rica’s coach, Miguel Herrera, will be without defender Alexis Gamboa and midfielder Orlando Galo, both suspended due to yellow-card accumulation following the goalless draw against Honduras on Thursday.
Expected Costa Rica starting XI: Keylor Navas; Carlos Mora, Kendall Waston, Juan Pablo Vargas, Francisco Calvo, Joseph Mora; Aaron Murillo, Allan Cruz; Josimar Alcocer, Manfred Ugalde, Alonso Martinez.
Nicaragua expected lineup vs Costa Rica
Following a 3-0 loss to Haiti, Nicaragua’s coach, Marco Figueroa, plans to make squad changes due to some players’ poor performances. Adjustments are essential, as Nicaragua needs a win to remain in contention for the World Cup.
Expected Nicaragua starting XI: Miguel Rodriguez; Justin Cano, Henry Nino, Oscar Acevedo, Emmanuel Gomez, Josue Quijano; Jason Coronel, Junior Arteaga, Juan Barrera; Ariel Arauz, Ariagner Smith.