El Salvador suffered a damaging 1-2 home defeat to Suriname in a FIFA World Cup qualification (CONCACAF) match on September 9, 2025. This result is a major upset and a severe setback for El Salvador's hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup. The home side took an early lead, raising hopes of a vital three points. However, Suriname fought back impressively, equalizing before halftime with a well-taken goal. The second half was tense, with the decisive moment coming when Suriname won and converted a penalty with twenty minutes remaining. El Salvador threw everything forward but could not find an equalizer, leaving the home fans stunned. This defeat leaves El Salvador with a mountain to climb in the qualification table, while Suriname celebrates a historic and potentially pivotal away win. The Suriname coach hailed his team's character, while the El Salvador manager described the loss as unacceptable. The match was a physical and emotional battle, with the visitors showing greater composure at key moments.