On Thursday, Suriname will host El Salvador in a crucial World Cup qualifying match set to unfold in Paramaribo. This clash is particularly significant as it features the top team from Group A, Suriname, facing a struggling El Salvador, who currently sit at the bottom of the standings, three points adrift.
Suriname is navigating its path toward what could be their maiden World Cup appearance, displaying a commendable performance in the earlier stages of qualification. They garnered 10 points from a possible 12 in the second round, overwhelming their group and securing advancement alongside El Salvador. Yet, the third stage has not been as straightforward; despite their position at the top, they have struggled to convert draws into victories, with three out of their four matches ending in stalemates. Their recent matches included a disappointing goalless draw against Panama, a 2-1 victory over El Salvador, and a late equalizer in another match against Guatemala, which allowed them to salvage a point.
Currently, Suriname is keen to secure the three crucial points against El Salvador to bolster their chances ahead of their final qualifier against Guatemala, which promises to be a daunting away challenge.
Conversely, El Salvador is aiming to reclaim its stature in the World Cup, having last appeared in 1982 in Spain. The team had a promising run in the second round, amassing eight points, which allowed them to reach the next phase. However, the third round has been a struggle; they began with a narrow 1-0 victory over Guatemala, but have since faced three successive defeats—all by a single goal—culminating in a recent 1-0 loss back at home to Guatemala. These results have placed them firmly in last place in Group A, raising the stakes for Thursday’s encounter as a loss would effectively eliminate any hopes of qualifying for the next stage.
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In terms of team news, Suriname is likely to field Groningen goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen, supported by a back four possibly consisting of Djavan Anderson, Stefano Denswil, Shaquille Pinas, and Ridgeciano Haps. The team’s all-time leading scorer, Gleofilo Vlijter, is expected to feature in the attack, having scored 15 times for his country.
On the other hand, El Salvador’s manager, Hernan Gomez, may opt for a defensive setup but will need to strike a balance between caution and aggression, given their dire circumstances in the group. Julio Sibrian and Ronald Rodriguez are anticipated to form the central defense, while the attacking strategy is likely to revolve around striker Brayan Gil, who has netted five international goals.
Given the stakes of the match and the current form of both teams, Suriname appears to have the advantage playing at home. Predictions suggest a tightly contested game, with a final scoreline favoring Suriname at 2-1. The outcome of this match could be pivotal for both teams’ aspirations for World Cup qualification.
