Minnesota United may be off this week, but several Loons will be in action this weekend. Here’s how you can watch your Loons abroad during the international break.
Friday, September 1
USA vs. Costa Rica | 5:30 p.m. CT | ESPN
What’s at stake: Costa Rica has been comfortable on top of the Hex standings so far in qualifying, thanks in part to efforts from Francisco Calvo and Johan Venegas. However, the Ticos will need a good result against a U.S. side that is undefeated since Bruce Arena took over the squad. Qualifying is far from over and with four matches left, every point is precious.
Trinidad and Tobago vs. Honduras | 6:45 p.m. CT | beIN SPORTS
What’s at stake: It’s do or die time for Kevin Molino and the Soca Warriors, who currently occupy the bottom spot in the Hex. If there was ever a time for them to turn it around, it’s this set of games starting with fifth-place Honduras. A win here would leapfrog the island nation ahead of Honduras and bring it within striking distance of that fourth-place playoff spot. With automatic qualification pretty much out of the picture for Molino and company, getting into the continental playoffs will be their best bet to go to Russia in 2018.
Tuesday, September 5
Costa Rica vs. Mexico | 9:00 p.m. CT | beIN SPORTS
What’s at stake: It’s a battle for CONCACAF supremacy as the top two teams in qualifying clash in Costa Rica’s capital. Mexico beat the Ticos handily at Azteca back in March, which allowed it to take over the top spot in the group. Both teams could have the possibility of locking up a spot at the World Cup with a win here, so expect a strong fight from both squads.
Panama vs. Trinidad and Tobago | 9:00 p.m. CT | Universo
What’s at stake: Depending on results from the first match, Trinidad and Tobago may be right in the mix or teetering on the brink. Either way it needs a win here, but previous road struggles will make this a difficult match. Panama has not been dominant at home though, having drawn all three of its matches in Panama City. Molino will need to provide a much-needed spark to the Soca Warriors’ offense if he hopes to see his nation back in the World Cup for the first time since 2006.
Note:Michael Boxall (New Zealand) and Jermaine Taylor (Jamaica) will also be in action, but those matches will not be available for broadcast in the U.S.
