FIFA WCQ: CONCACAF results update

The Caltex Socceroos’ potential CONCACAF playoff opponents is no clearer after Wednesday’s round of group matches in the region.

There were three matches played on Wednesday with Panama the only nation to claim maximum points, beating Trinidad and Tobago 3-0.

Gabriel Torres and Abdiel Arroyo both scored for the Panamanians, while a Carlyle Mitchell own goal contributed to the emphatic win.

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The result moves Panama into third spot on the ladder, which brings with it automatic qualification to Russia next year.

USA are in fourth spot after they salvaged a 1-1 draw with Honduras thanks to Bobby Wood’s 82nd minute goal.

It means America – like Australia – may have to go through the playoffs to reach the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

 

CONCACAF table

The team who finishes fourth in CONCACAF will face the Caltex Socceroos in a two-legged play-off in November for a spot at the World Cup, providing Ange Postecoglou’s side beat Syria over two legs next month.

Mexico, who have already booked their spot in Russia, drew 1-1 with Costa Rica, who are currently second in the group.

Each nation still has two games to play in the group, with those matches to be played in early October.