Guatemala vs Suriname: World Cup Qualifying Showdown

The Final Frontier: A Historic World Cup Qualifier

As CONCACAF World Cup qualifying reaches its decisive stage, Guatemala and Suriname prepare for a clash that could alter football history. The November 19, 2025 encounter at Estadio El Trébol isn't just another match—it's a high-stakes battle where dreams of reaching the 2026 World Cup hang in the balance.

What's at Stake?

For Suriname, a victory means their first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup. Currently topping Group A with nine points from five games, the Dutch-speaking nation has been the surprise package of the tournament. A single win in Guatemala would secure their place at football's biggest stage, cementing their status as CONCACAF's emerging powerhouse.

Guatemala's journey, while less dramatic, carries its own significance. Los Chapines have never qualified for a World Cup, and despite a challenging campaign (1 win, 2 draws, 2 defeats), they can still influence the group standings. A positive result would prevent them from finishing last in Group A and provide a fitting end to their qualifying journey.

Form Guide and Key Players

Suriname arrives in buoyant mood after their most emphatic performance yet—a 4-0 demolition of El Salvador. Goals from Tjaronn Chery, Dhoraso Klas, and a two-minute brace from Richonell Margaret highlighted their attacking prowess. With the tournament's best attack (9 goals) and defense (only 4 conceded), manager Dean Gorré may stick with the same XI that delivered that historic win.

Guatemala, meanwhile, showed resilience in their last outing despite a 3-2 loss to Panama. After trailing 2-0, they fought back to level the score before falling short. Midfielder Rudy Muñoz scored twice off the bench and is expected to start this time. Coach Luis Fernando Tena has maintained a consistent 4-3-3 formation, with Nicholas Hagen a reliable presence in goal.

Tactical Battle

Expect Suriname to control possession with their technical midfield trio of Chery, Boetius, and Paal. Their wing play through Becker and Margaret could trouble Guatemala's full-backs. Guatemala will rely on counter-attacks, utilizing the pace of forwards Luis López and Omar Santis.

Defensively, Suriname's backline of Pinas, Abena, and Balker has been solid, but they'll face a test against Guatemala's physical approach. The key battle? Suriname's midfield creativity against Guatemala's industrious center pairing of Herrera and Robles.

How to Watch

Football fans can catch all the action on Paramount+ on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, with kickoff at 8:00 PM ET. The broadcast will feature pre-match analysis and live coverage of this pivotal qualifier.

Expert Prediction

Analysts favor Suriname, citing their unbeaten record (2 wins, 3 draws) and recent 4-0 victory as clear indicators of their momentum. Guatemala's fighting spirit could make it a competitive affair, but the visitors' superior form and higher stakes give them the edge. A 0-2 victory for Suriname appears the most likely outcome.

"With Suriname coming into this one on the back of a 4-0 win and on the verge of making history, they should be favourites to get the win against a struggling Guatemala side."

What Next?

A win for Suriname would trigger massive celebrations back home, marking their entry into the World Cup for the first time. For Guatemala, the focus shifts to rebuilding under Tena as they look to end their long wait for qualification in future campaigns.