The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in CONCACAF continue with a pivotal Group A clash as El Salvador vs Guatemala at Estadio Cuscatlán in San Salvador on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. The 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match is kicking off at 7:00 p.m. local time (9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT).
This third-round encounter could significantly impact the battle for automatic qualification spots in the expanded tournament hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada. El Salvador aims to build on their recent victory, while Guatemala seeks to climb out of the bottom spot.
In the October FIFA World Cup qualification Window match, for the El Salvador vs. Guatemala preview, predictions, team news, lineups, or how to watch the 2026 World Cup qualifier live, this detailed guide provides analysis, stats, and essential information.
El Salvador vs Guatemala Match Overview and Context
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This fixture is part of CONCACAF’s third-round qualifiers, where 12 teams are divided into three groups of four, playing home and away from September to November 2025.
Group winners qualify directly for the World Cup teams, with the two best runners-up advancing to inter-confederation playoffs. CONCACAF secures six automatic spots plus two playoff berths.
El Salvador, coached by Hernan Dario Gomez, is chasing their first World Cup appearance since 1982. Guatemala, under Luis Fernando Tena, is aiming for their maiden finals berth.
Historically, Guatemala leads the head-to-head with 36 wins to El Salvador’s 18 in 77 meetings, but El Salvador has won five of the last six home games against Guatemala. Expect a tense derby at the 53,400-capacity Estadio Cuscatlán, known for its passionate atmosphere.
Current Standings in CONCACAF Third Round Group A
As of October 13, 2025 (prior to matchday 4), Group A standings are as follows (updated to matches played on October 10, 2025):
| Pos | Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Suriname | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 2 | +1 | 5 |
| 2 | Panama | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 1 | +1 | 5 |
| 3 | El Salvador | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 3 |
| 4 | Guatemala | 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 2 |
El Salvador sits third after a 1-2 loss to Suriname and a 0-1 defeat to Panama, but started with a late victory over Guatemala. Guatemala is last, with draws against Panama and Suriname but a loss to El Salvador.
El Salvador vs Guatemala Match Preview
El Salvador has struggled for consistency, winning just twice in 10 matches, with only three goals in their last seven outings. However, they’ve kept clean sheets in key games and have a strong home record against Guatemala.
Gomez’s side needs to capitalize on early chances, as 11 of their 14 qualifier goals came in the first half.
Guatemala showed promise with a 1-1 draw against Suriname but conceded a late equalizer, extending a run of one win in seven. Tena’s team has lost only three of 17 under his tenure but struggles away, with just one road win in five recent games.
Their defensive setup could frustrate El Salvador, but they must improve finishing.
Team News and Possible Lineups
El Salvador Team News
Christian Martinez is an injury doubt after a short substitute appearance against Panama. Mauricio Cerritos could retain his spot in midfield, with Marcelo Diaz an option to replace Bryan Landaverde. No other major issues; key players like Brayan Gil and Darwin Ceren are expected to feature.
Possible El Salvador Starting Lineup (3-4-3):
Gonzalez; Valladares, Dominguez, Rodriguez, Sibrian, Climaco; Ceren, Diaz; Cerritos; Vasquez, Gil.
Guatemala Team News
No injuries reported; Luis Fernando Tena has a full squad. Darwin Lom is likely to start up front after scoring off the bench against Suriname, replacing Rubio Rubin. Key players like Carlos Mejia and Julio Herrera remain central.
Possible Guatemala Starting Lineup (5-4-1):
Hagen; Herrera, Pinto, Samayoa, Franco, Morales; Santis, Robles, Saravia, Lopez; Lom.
El Salvador vs Guatemala Prediction
Given El Salvador’s home dominance in this fixture and Guatemala’s away struggles, the hosts should edge a close contest.
- Prediction: El Salvador 2-1 Guatemala. La Selecta climbs the group with a vital win.
How to Watch El Salvador vs Guatemala FIFA World Cup Qualifications 2026
- Date and Time: Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT
- Venue: Estadio Cuscatlán, San Salvador, El Salvador
- TV and Streaming (USA): Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo Network, or stream on fuboTV and YouTube TV
- Global Options: FIFA+ (select regions), or local broadcasters like Canal 4 (El Salvador) and Tigo Sports (Guatemala)
- Live Scores and Updates: ESPN, Sofascore, or Flashscore for real-time stats and highlights
Conclusion
El Salvador vs Guatemala is a must-win qualifier in Group A that could reshape the standings. With El Salvador favored at home, expect drama and key performances
Get live updates, post-match recaps, and everything you need on the CONCACAF 2026 World Cup qualifiers, from scores to highlights. Stick with your go-to source for soccer previews and analysis, and don’t miss out—tune in tonight!
