Soccer

Haiti Eliminated from World Cup after 0-1 Loss to Antigua & Barbuda

SAINT JOHN'S, Antigua (defend.ht) - With new teammates, acquired from European leagues on Thursday, a beefed up Federation of Haitian Football Men's Team could not take the first place in Group F of the CONCACAF Caribbean Cup, World Cup 2014 Qualifiers on Friday. The defeat does result in the elimination of Haiti from playing in Brazil in 2014.

Coming into the match, Haiti was ranked number 2, tied with Antigua & Barbuda in wins but trailing in points scored against opponents; Haiti with 10, Antigua with 12.

Even away from home playing at the Sticky Wicket Stadium in Saint John's Antigua & Barbuda, it was clear that the Haitian team was more superior in technique.

Early on, The Grenadiers pressured the home team outpacing in all facets of ball control, passes, speed and fancy footwork. The Haitian selection imposed its game on the Antiguans in the first 82 minutes. But the Haitians were not able to include at least one goal.

On two occasions the ball came to rest flush with the pole of the opposing team.

Haiti would be undone after a scoreless first half and 37 minutes into the second half when Kerry Skepple of Antigua & Barbuda scored passing a ball past Johny Placide. Despite the many occasions, the Haitian selection could not settle the score. This would be the first loss to Antigua since 1984 and a costly one.

Although eliminated from World Cup contention, The Grenadiers will have another opportunity to play Antigua & Barbadu on November 15, 2011. This time on their home turf at the Sylvio Cator in Port-au-Prince.