World Cup stars vital ambassadors Haiti desperately requires coach declares
Haiti, recognised as the poorest country in the Americas, has secured a spot at the 2026 World Cup. This milestone represents the peak of 18 months of intensive efforts by coach Sebastien Migne, who has still not set foot in the nation.
"My wife even asked me: 'What on earth are you up to, Seb?'" Migne shared with AFP during a conversation on Wednesday, reflecting on his decision to take the Haiti position in March 2024.
The 52 year old Frenchman has since assembled a strong squad amid severe political instability, security threats, and humanitarian challenges. He led them to qualification for the upcoming event in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, thanks to Tuesdays 2 0 victory against Nicaragua.
"I caught sight of footage on social platforms, chaos in Haiti," Migne remarked.
Celebrations of this magnitude mirrored the excitement on the field at Ergilio Hato Stadium in Curacao, Haitis temporary home due to safety concerns.
"Folks were flooding the roads everywhere. My team members will serve as inspiring representatives for a nation that truly requires such figures. Life in Haiti is tough, its residents endure hardship with few chances to rejoice," Migne continued.
At the sounds end, the athletes and support crew huddled midway on the turf, fixated on their devices, anticipating the conclusion of Costa Ricas game versus Honduras.
Haiti required a stalemate between those opponents to advance to their second World Cup in history.
As soon as Costa Rica and Honduras ended without goals, "the place erupted, individuals dashing about wildly," Migne described.
Migne found it hard to hold back his feelings upon reaching "the ultimate dream for any footballer".
He attended the 2022 World Cup supporting Rigobert Song at Cameroon, yet now he holds the leadership role.
Significant change
The Frenchman remains barred from entering Haiti for now, given that the capital Port au Prince falls largely under gang influence. These groups prompted the resignation of prime minister Ariel Henry earlier in 2024.
However, he anticipates visiting come early next year when the domestic league resumes, allowing him to scout emerging talents.
"The citizens of Haiti await encouragement, and we intend to demonstrate our commitment," Migne vowed.
This success stems from more than 18 months of dedication, during which he "embarked on a mission to recruit dual nationals into the project" and enhanced the squads environment.
"Prior to committing, I evaluated them, gauged the abilities of talents like Ruben Providence and Jean Ricner Bellegarde," Migne clarified.
"I worked to persuade them, challenged the established players by sidelining some, and cleared space for fresh energy. I sensed real potential there."
He integrated left winger Providence, a scorer in the Nicaragua clash, along with Wolves midfielder Bellegarde for this decisive qualification round.
Migne further convinced Burnley defender and ex Belgian youth player Hannes Delcroix to participate, among additional recruits.
To attract those with dual citizenship, Migne "occasionally journeyed, frequently relied on video chats, involved relatives, at times the sibling serving as representative. It proved a drawn out endeavour," he recalled.
His talent hunt persists, as World Cup participation might entice figures like Sunderlands Wilson Isidor or ex Crystal Palace striker Odsonne Edouard.