Haiti is returning to the men's World Cup for the first time in 52 years, marking its second appearance overall. The team faces Scotland in the opening Group C match in Boston on Saturday, June 17, 2023 [1, 2].
In Port-au-Prince, residents have begun cleaning streets and setting up communal viewing areas with makeshift seating and screens to watch the games. Junior Emaus, one organizer, said, "We will be watching the matches in this area, which is why we are cleaning. We said it would be good to put a screen there to help people enjoy that moment, a very special moment" [1].
This enthusiasm comes despite ongoing challenges in the Haitian capital, where chronic electricity shortages and gang violence disrupt daily life [1, 2]. Since 2021, after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, gang violence surged and has prevented Haiti from hosting any senior men's international soccer matches at home [1, 2]. Armed groups control Stade Sylvio Cator national stadium, forcing Haiti to play World Cup qualifiers at neutral venues [1, 2].
The national team competes in Group C alongside Brazil and Morocco [1, 2]. Among Haitian supporters abroad, some like Noel Risnold have obtained U.S. visas in hopes of attending matches. Risnold said, "I am happy first because I received the visa and because I can take advantage of it to support Haiti at the World Cup" [1].
Cable taxi driver Ronald summed up Haiti's hopes for the opening match: "You know that on Saturday it will be Haiti's first match at the World Cup. Haiti have to beat Scotland" [1].
The communal watch parties and excitement have been building since June 12, when residents started cleaning and preparing spaces for viewing [1, 2]. The opening match on June 17 will test not only Haiti's soccer team but the spirit of a nation facing difficult conditions at home.