Overview
- Costa Rica must beat group leader Honduras on the final CONCACAF matchday to avoid mathematical elimination from World Cup 2026 qualifying.
- New York City FC confirmed that forward Alonso Martínez suffered a knee injury on international duty and returned to New York for evaluation.
- Martínez had been a leading contributor for Costa Rica with four goals and two assists, leaving Miguel Herrera without a key attacking option.
- Automatic qualification remains possible only with a win and favorable results elsewhere, while other combinations could leave Costa Rica chasing a playoff berth.
- RÉCORD, citing Tigo Costa Rica, reports plans for a silent boycott and widespread ticket resales to Honduran fans that could dilute the home-field atmosphere at Estadio Nacional.