Haiti’s new star Isidor scores first goal, but team underwhelms in 1-1 draw with Iceland

CAP-HAÏTIEN — Haiti closed its March FIFA window with a 1-1 draw against Iceland Tuesday, March 31, at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada, as striker Wilson Isidor scored a late equalizer that highlighted both promise and persistent flaws ahead of the World Cup.

The 25-year-old forward netted his first international goal in the 88th minute, finishing a composed solo run after receiving a short pass from Frantzdy Pierrot. In just his second appearance—with the first coming as a substitute in the second half of the game against Tunisia on March 28—Isidor showed the clinical edge Haiti has long lacked up front.

But beyond that moment, the match reinforced deeper concerns during that international window, serving as preparation for the next summer’s FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Haiti’s two friendlies offered contrasting performances.

Against Tunisia, a stronger and more structured opponent, Les Grenadiers delivered one of their most cohesive displays in months despite a 1-0 loss. The team matched Tunisia’s counterattacking style, played with tempo and created chances, suggesting progress.

Against Iceland, however, Haiti struggled.

Facing a slower, possession-based approach, the team failed to adapt. Passes were inconsistent, ball retention was poor and transitions lacked structure. The contrast exposed a key limitation: Haiti remains far more comfortable playing direct, fast-paced soccer than controlling possession.

Midfield, slow starts and defensive lapses remain the biggest concern

Haiti’s inability to dictate play starts in midfield.

Jean-Ricner Bellegarde showed flashes of control, particularly in the second half, but often lacked support. Leverton Pierre, more suited to counterattacking play, struggled before exiting with an injury. His replacement, Woodensky Pierre, contributed defensively but offered little in buildup play.

The absence of Danley Jean-Jacques, suspended after a red card against Tunisia, further weakened the unit.

Without a reliable midfield capable of linking defense and attack, Haiti frequently lost possession quickly — especially against Iceland’s slower tempo.

One potential solution remains undecided: Jean-Baptiste Gorby, a midfielder playing in Portugal, has yet to commit to the national team.

Another recurring issue is Haiti’s slow starts.

Head coach Sébastien Migné noted that the team only settled into its rhythm after 15 minutes against Tunisia, having already conceded a goal. A similar pattern emerged against Iceland, where Haiti struggled early and allowed space in dangerous areas. The Nordic team’s number 10, Gylfi Sigurðsson, nearly scored early in the game from a shot in the box.

Then, the Icelanders capitalized in the 61st minute when Sigurðsson was left unmarked in the box once again and finished easily after a cross. The play exposed Haiti’s defensive vulnerability, particularly on the left flank, where Martin Expérience received limited support tracking back.

These lapses could prove costly against World Cup opponents such as Brazil, Morocco and Scotland, who are more clinical in front of goal.

Signs of attacking promise and what Haiti must fix before the World Cup

Despite the shortcomings, Haiti’s attack showed encouraging signs.

Veterans Duckens Nazon and Frantzdy Pierrot combined with Ruben Providence to create chances late in the first half. Louicius Don Deedson and Bellegarde also came close to scoring.

Isidor’s emergence adds a new dimension. His movement, composure and finishing ability provide Haiti with a true goal-scoring threat — something the team has lacked in recent years.

The March window made one thing clear: Haiti is not yet World Cup-ready.

To compete, Les Grenadiers must:

• Improve midfield cohesion and ball circulation
• Strengthen defensive organization, especially on the flanks
• Start matches with greater intensity and focus
• Adapt to different styles of play, not just counterattacks

With only one international window remaining before the tournament, time is limited.

Isidor’s goal may prove pivotal in boosting confidence. But unless structural issues are addressed, Haiti risks being exposed on the world stage.

For now, the team leaves March with both hope — and a clear warning.

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