Honduras’ great debut on Egypt WC U-20

*In the picture, Mario Martinez the 20 year old Honduran midfielder. Currently plays for Vålerenga in Norway. Scored two spectacular goals against Hungary.

While our senior squad is still on the road for South Africa World Cup 2010, our U-20 is already in Egypt battling for a place in the next round and will try to prove to the world that although we may be a small country, we still got talented players.

Our players have demonstrated maturity of putting aside all of the political turmoil happening back in Honduras and giving in at the U-20 WC.

On Sunday our squad began their journey on the WC debuting against Hungary. As usual, we were the underdogs and Hungary, well it’s a European country.

We couldn’t have debuted any better on Alexandria, Egypt. 3 world cup class goals, no goals conceded, great match against a descent team, and first on the group table. Something not even I was expecting. Brings happiness, faith and hope to all of our suffering citizens back home.

On Wednesday our team will be facing United Arab Emirates who come from tying against South Africa 2-2. Hopefully we can win this match and guarantee a ticket for next round. The difference this time is that United Arab Emirates is now aware about our potential and wont see us as a weak team which was what probably happened with Hungary. Every team will learn not to underestimate a team like Honduras.

Hungary struggled to create goalscoring opportunities during the game due to our great defensive line and goalkeeper. I hope they keep their lines strong and organized.

Mario Martinez scored on the 35′ with a ferocious left-footed strike from outside the box and on the 70′ minute he swept the goalkeeper with a curling shot. Arnold Peralta added the third goal on the 84′ minute with a lovely right-footed shot from way out of the box. All goals were a proof of confidence, maturity, strength and their thirst for victory.

This is just a small step taken by our U-20. We need to advance to next round in order to gain confidence and respect around the globe.

Here is what manager Emilio Umanzor had to say after the victory, “I’m delighted with my players and happy to have confounded everyone who saw us as the weakest team in the group. We’re here to make history for Honduran football.” Very profound and strong words of professor Umanzor.

Below is the table of standings as of Sunday on Group F and also the next upcoming matches.

Below I provided a video for you guys of the highlights and goals of the match.