Second in Group F of the second round of qualifications of the CONCACAF zone, Haiti plays its ticket for the rest of the route on November 11 against Antigua and Barbuda. “Within us, we really believe” confides Jean-Marc Alexandre, the midfielder of Real Salt Lake in MLS “be eliminated now, would be a huge disappointment,” added the international, double goalscorer against U.S. Virgin Islands in September (6-0). double goalscorer against U.S. Virgin Islands in September (6-0). Haiti has lost two valuable points at home against Curacao last month. As a result, the defeat is prohibited on November 11 on the lawn of leader to St. John’s.
We will do what is necessary, I am confident,” asserts Alexandre “There is no room for error on this match: if we lose, it’s over. The pressure is enormous but we have the technical and mental qualities to meet this”
Absent from the world cup since 1974, Haiti has recovered from the terrible earthquake of January 2010, in which the Haitian football family has lost many members. Quarter-finals of the Gold Cup CONCACAF in 2009, the Grenadiers take advantage of new reinforcements, seduced by the Brazilian coach, in the image of striker Jean-Eudes Maurice from Lens, freshly called and already decisive, or Reginald Goreux, defender of Standard of Liège.
With 10 points earned in four outings, Haiti has 90 minutes to perpetuate the work of Tavares, who succeeded Wagneau Eloi in 2010. “Over the past year we have made progress, there is no doubt. The coach has made an offensive philosophy that sticks to our mentality […] His message going very well and his system corresponds to our qualities. If everyone plays at its best in national team, it is thanks to him,” added Alexandre “For the first time in many years, we are all on the same wavelength. We have the same goal. The collective takes precedence over individuals and it is a huge difference compared to the past […] The majority of players on the team have 25-26 years, so we know we will be together for a few years. This is what gives this thirst for victory, with the pride to make our people happy.”
