TOKYO, Japan – Honduras will be looking to rebound from their opening defeat to Romania, as they face a big test against New Zealand in Group B of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on Sunday at Kashima Stadium in Kashima, Japan.
Honduras were not lacking for chances in their opening 1-0 defeat to Romania. The likes of Carlos Pineda and Jorge Benguche came achingly close to scoring, but were unable to find that final touch.
It will also be important for MF star Edwin Rodriguez to impose his will on the affair and unlock the New Zealand defense with his dynamic playmaking and threat to score from outside the area.
There is every reason for the Catrachos to feel confident about their possibilities of advancing, and the chances are very good that closing the group with two wins would see them through.
However, getting three points against New Zealand will not be easy. The Oceania side collected a 1-0 win in their opening match against South Korea thanks to a goal from former Premier League player Chris Wood.
The defense is also strengthened by two overage players, Winston Reid, a Premier League veteran himself and Minnesota United defender Michael Boxall.
It will be up to Honduras’ bright young talents to ensure that New Zealand’s defensive experience is nullified.
