Bolivia Moves Closer to World Cup Qualification with Victory Over Suriname

Bolivia's Path to World Cup Glory

Mexico City, March 27: Bolivia is on the verge of its first World Cup appearance in over three decades after securing a 2-1 win against Suriname in the inter-confederation playoff semifinal.

Suriname initially took the lead shortly after halftime at BBVA Stadium, with Liam van Gelderen scoring from close range following a chaotic moment in the box.

However, Bolivia equalized in the 72nd minute when Moises Paniagua seized on a loose ball and expertly placed it into the bottom-right corner of the net.

Just seven minutes later, Miguel Terceros turned the game around by converting a penalty after Juan Godoy was fouled by Myenty Abena.

This victory sets up a crucial playoff match against Iraq on Tuesday at the same venue. Iraq has not qualified for the World Cup since 1986, while Bolivia aims for its first appearance since the 1994 tournament in the United States.

The upcoming World Cup will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.

In other matches, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Czechia advanced through tense shootouts, overcoming Wales and Ireland, respectively, after trailing during regular time.

Bosnia and Herzegovina will face Italy, who defeated Northern Ireland, in Zenica for a chance to qualify for North America, while Czechia will host a strong Denmark team in Prague.

Additionally, Viktor Gyokeres scored a hat-trick as Sweden triumphed over Ukraine in their Path B semi-final. Sweden will now host Poland, who came back to defeat Albania. Kosovo and Turkiye will meet in Pristina for the Path C decider.