Honduras media revel in 'Operacion Canguro’ as World Cup qualifier looms

It’s the biggest story in the Honduran media as the Caltex Socceroos prepare to face Los Catrachos in their first leg winner-takes-all World Cup qualifier in Honduras.

The Australian squad has arrived in San Pedro Sula ahead of the game, kicking off on Saturday morning Australian time, with media coverage at an all-time high for such an important tie.

The Australian team’s arrival, their form, itinerary and travelling fans are all adding to the mystique around Honduras’s opponent, with Diez newspaper dubbing the clash as “Operacion Canguro”.

Diez

 

San Pedro Sula newspaper La Prensa opined on the low-key arrival of Ange Postecoglou’s squad.

"The Australians came to the country and they did it with total secrecy.

“They did not give a smile to the media who were covering their arrival.

“Part of the press wanted to interview some and [the Socceroos] did not give in," wrote La Prensa.

La Prensa

 

La Prenza also interviewed one of the most decorated Honduran internationals, David Suazo.

Suazo enjoyed a stellar career in Italy – largely in Serie A – where he would’ve crossed paths with Aussie internationals such as Bresciano, Grella and Kalac.

Though his assessment of Australia was fairly blunt.

"Australia is a strong team but with a simple philosophy and does not have an important football tradition," Suazo claimed.

Honduras' Football Federation President Jorge Salomon offers a press conference in Tegucigalpa
Honduras' Football Federation President Jorge Salomon offers a press conference in Tegucigalpa.