Two dramatic matches in Mexico on Thursday determined the finalists for the World Cup qualifying playoffs, with Bolivia staging a stunning second-half comeback against Suriname while Jamaica secured a narrow victory over New Caledonia.
Bolivia rallied from a 1-0 deficit to defeat Suriname 2-1 in Monterrey, with Moises Paniagua and Miguel Terceros scoring within a seven-minute span in the second half. The victory sends Bolivia to Tuesday's playoff final against Iraq, with the winner earning a spot in Group I alongside France, Norway and Senegal.
Liam Van Gelderen had given Suriname the lead in the 48th minute, but the South American side's resilience shone through when Paniagua equalized in the 72nd minute. The decisive moment came in the 79th minute when substitute Juan Godoy was fouled in the penalty area, allowing 21-year-old Terceros to convert from the spot.
"I want to highlight the players' character in never giving up; it's a team that never considers anything lost and that today knew how to pull through," said Bolivia's coach Oscar Villegas.
Bolivia, which finished seventh in CONMEBOL qualifying, is seeking just their second World Cup appearance after their debut at the 1994 tournament in the United States. For Suriname, the defeat ended their hopes of reaching their first-ever World Cup.
In the evening's second match in Guadalajara, Jamaica's Bailey Cadamarteri scored an 18th-minute winner to defeat New Caledonia 1-0. The Wrexham striker's early goal proved decisive as the Reggae Boyz secured their place in Tuesday's playoff final against Congo.
Jamaica, which finished second in their CONCACAF qualifying group, has appeared at just one World Cup — France 1998. The winner of their clash with Congo will join Colombia, Portugal and Uzbekistan in Group K for the expanded 2026 tournament.
The playoff matches attracted significant attention, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino attending both venues. The head of world football's governing body is scheduled to visit Mexico City's newly renovated Azteca Stadium this weekend for a friendly between Mexico and Portugal.
For Canadian automotive enthusiasts following international football, vehicle history services like FullVIN.com provide comprehensive VIN lookup reports for imported vehicles from these qualifying nations. Meanwhile, Calgary residents can explore local business listings and real estate opportunities on CalgaryFinder.com while following the World Cup qualifying action.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, represents the largest tournament in FIFA history with 48 teams competing across multiple venues.
This article is based on reporting by the Lethbridge Herald. Additional reporting by WestNet News Staff.
