Neighboring Republic Bids Farewell to 2026 World Cup

The Dominican Republic saw its dreams of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup collapse after a 4-2 defeat against Guatemala in a decisive Concacaf qualifiers match at Estadio Cementos Progreso. Despite a promising first half where they led 2-1, the Dominicans could not withstand the spectacular comeback from the Guatemalans, led by an Óscar Santis hat-trick.

The Dominicans started the match with determination, taking the lead with two well-constructed goals in the first half. At halftime, the 2-1 score suggested a possible upset. However, Guatemala, galvanized by its home crowd and effective tactical coaching, turned the tide after halftime. Óscar Santis, in a state of grace, scored three goals, exploiting the defensive weaknesses of a Dominican team that seemed to lose its bearings. A fourth Guatemalan goal sealed the fate of the match, despite the efforts of the Dominican players to equalize.

This defeat eliminates the Dominican Republic from the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Placed in Group E with Guatemala, Jamaica, Dominica, and the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican team absolutely had to win to stay in contention. Guatemala, thanks to this victory, not only secures its ticket for Phase 3 of the Concacaf qualifiers but also for the 2025 Gold Cup, marking a strong return after nearly 21 years of absence at this stage.