Guyana’s hopes of advancing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers were crushed on Friday night, as the Golden Jaguars suffered a 1-0 defeat to Nicaragua in Group D action at the Estadio Nacional de Fútbol in Managua.
Jaime Moreno netted the decisive goal in the 41st minute, capitalising on a rebound from close range after Ariel Arauz’s long-range effort was parried by Guyanese goalkeeper Akel Clarke. Moreno reacted quickest to slot home the only goal of the contest, ultimately sealing the three points for the home side.
The result guarantees Nicaragua a spot in the next round of CONCACAF qualifiers, making their final group match against Panama on Tuesday less crucial in terms of qualification. In contrast, the loss almost certainly guarantees that Guyana’s progression to the next stage is off the table, with their final game against Montserrat a must win.
The Golden Jaguars, who will host Montserrat on Tuesday at the National Track & Field Centre in Edinburgh, West Coast Demerara, must now rely on both a victory and favourable outcomes in other matches to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Statistically, Nicaragua edged possession with 54% compared to Guyana’s 46%, and dominated the shot count with 25 total attempts to Guyana’s 13. Both teams showed attacking intent, but Nicaragua proved more clinical, recording four shots on target to Guyana’s three.
