CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers: Matchday 8 analysis - who's safe, when to watch

September 3, 2017 By Oscar Rojas

Topics: CONCACAF, World Cup Qualifying, Mexico, Costa Rica

With Mexico already planning their trip to Russia, there are two and a half spots left to play for in the North American region.

Mexico took advantage of the USMNT's poor performances in all the World Cup Qualifiers to put their hands on the first ticket for football's biggest tournament. But even if El Tri are already packing their bags to play in Russia for the second summer in a row, there is still much to play for in CONCACAF'S Final Round en route to the World Cup.

With three teams fighting for one direct ticket and a playoff spot, things couldn't be tighter in the North American region. Let's have a look at what's next for all the six teams playing in CONCACAF's World Cup Qualifiers.

Matchday 8 fixtures

Honduras & the USMNT kick off the action this Tuesday, in what should be a grueling match between these teams. Los Catrachos need to recover from a 6-0 loss against the Americans, and this game gives them a chance for payback and an opportunity to still have their destiny in their own hands. As for the USMNT, a draw could come in handy for Bruce Arena's men, as they face lower-ranked teams in October.

The winner of the 2018 World Cup Qualifiers could be determined by the game between Costa Rica and Mexico. Los Ticos need only one point to secure their spot in next year's World Cup, while Mexico wants to end all criticism by taking the Central American side to school by keeping their unbeaten run in the Qualifiers alive.

Panama and Trinidad & Tobago will bring Matchday 8 to a close at Rommel Fernández Stadium, with Los Canaleros needing to make up for their loss against Mexico. On the other hand, the Soca Warriors need a miracle to qualify even to the playoff round, and that miracle includes winning all of their remaining games, starting with this one.