Haiti’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup is one of the most remarkable stories of the entire cycle. A nation gripped by political instability and ongoing conflict, they were unable to play a single home match throughout qualifying – using Curacao as their base throughout the campaign.
Their coach Sebastien Migne, a Frenchman appointed in the summer of 2024, has never set foot in Haiti. Despite all of this, Les Grenadiers topped CONCACAF Group C to reach only their second ever World Cup – 52 years after their debut in 1974.
The squad is built almost entirely on diaspora talent, with players developed primarily in France, Belgium and England.
How they got there
Haiti finished top of CONCACAF Group C with 11 points – eliminating more established nations including Costa Rica and Honduras. Duckens Nazon was the standout performer in qualifying, scoring six goals including a hat-trick against Costa Rica.
Haiti never played on home soil throughout the entire campaign. Their qualification ranks among the most extraordinary achievements in CONCACAF history.
Best ever World Cup finish
Haiti’s only previous World Cup appearance came in 1974 in West Germany where they were eliminated in the group stage. Despite the early exit their debut produced one of the tournament’s most enduring moments.
Emmanuel Sanon’s goal against Italy ended legendary goalkeeper Dino Zoff’s remarkable international shutout streak of 1,142 minutes – one of the most celebrated moments in World Cup history.
Iconic moments
Sanon’s goal against Italy in 1974 defines Haiti’s World Cup story. A nation with limited football infrastructure producing a moment that stopped the world and entered the tournament’s folklore.
The qualification itself – achieved without a single home match, in a country torn apart by conflict – is arguably an even greater achievement 52 years later.
Players to watch
Wilson Isidor (Sunderland) – The most talented player in the squad. The 25-year-old forward switched allegiance from France to Haiti in early 2026 and has been one of the Premier League’s most dynamic attackers this season. His pace, directness and clinical finishing make him Haiti’s primary threat against any opponent.
Duckens Nazon (Esteghlal) – Haiti’s all-time leading scorer and the man who carried them through qualifying with six goals including a hat-trick against Costa Rica. His finishing and experience are central to everything Haiti do going forward.
Fixtures
14 Jun: Haiti vs Scotland – Gillette Stadium, Foxborough – 03:00 SAST
20 Jun: Brazil vs Haiti – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 03:00 SAST
25 Jun: Morocco vs Haiti – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 00:00 SAST
Photo: Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images
