![FLASH : Crucial victory for Haiti [1-0] against Costa Rica (World Cup 2026 Qualifiers)](https://wp.caribscopeonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/8a647f0eec1145b48833b8b7cbef3bdd.jpg)
In a thrilling encounter on November 13, 2025, Haiti’s senior national football team, known as the Grenadiers, clinched a crucial 1-0 victory against Costa Rica in the CONCACAF qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match, held at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad, Curaçao, marked a significant step forward for Haiti in their quest to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament. The decisive goal came in the 44th minute, courtesy of Frantzdy Pierrot, who capitalized on a well-executed team move down the left flank. Ruben Providence provided the assist, showcasing the team’s cohesive play. Goalkeeper Johnny Placide was instrumental in maintaining Haiti’s lead, delivering a series of critical saves to deny Costa Rica’s relentless attacks. This victory propelled Haiti to second place in Group C, with 8 points from 5 matches. The Grenadiers now prepare to face Nicaragua on November 18, 2025, in a match that holds immense significance for Haitian football. A win, coupled with favorable results in other group matches, could secure Haiti’s direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup. The team’s performance against Costa Rica highlighted their resilience, discipline, and determination, earning praise from fans and analysts alike.
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Duizenden scholieren oefenen voor Surinaamse vlag Onafhankelijkheidsdag
On Wednesday, thousands of students gathered at the André Kamperveen Stadium to rehearse a large-scale formation of the Surinamese flag in celebration of Independence Day. While the practice session showed promising results, organizers emphasized that there is still room for improvement. Major Eleen Simson and her team were kept busy attending to students who struggled with the sunny weather. After brief breaks, many returned to the field with smiles, ready to continue. Coordinator Melvin Groenfelt expressed confidence in the students’ enthusiasm and preparation, stating, ‘There are still a few details to iron out, but they already know what to do. The final result will be unveiled on Sunday.’ The grand performance is scheduled to take place on November 16 at Independence Square. Officer Faried Ilahibaks reflected on past celebrations, noting that the first such event occurred in 1975, coinciding with Suriname’s independence. Smaller exercises were held in 1985, while larger-scale performances took place in 2005 and 2010. Major Simson reported that over 20 students required medical attention during the rehearsal, primarily due to dizziness and nausea, often caused by insufficient food or water intake. She offered practical advice to participants and their parents: ‘Eat and drink well, but avoid heavy meals right before the event. Ensure adequate rest and go to bed early. Avoid staying up late or spending too much time on your phone on Saturday night.’
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Dominica faces defeat in opening match of CONCACAF series
The Men’s Senior National Football Team of Dominica faced a crushing defeat in their inaugural match of the Concacaf Series, losing 2-1 to St. Martin at the St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association’s Technical Center on Wednesday. Despite a valiant effort, Dominica’s campaign began on a sour note, as confirmed by a press release from the Dominica Football Association (DFA).
Dominica displayed early dominance, controlling possession and creating several scoring opportunities. However, their inability to capitalize on these chances proved costly. Striker Troy Jules saw his penalty attempt thwarted, and the team squandered other promising moments in the first half. Goalkeeper Jerome Burkard emerged as a standout performer, making a series of critical saves to keep St. Martin at bay. The first half concluded with both teams deadlocked at 0-0.
The second half saw Dominica regain momentum, with Jules seizing a loose ball to put his team ahead 1-0. Despite their lead, Dominica struggled to maintain control and secure the win. St. Martin’s relentless pressure paid dividends in the final 10 minutes, as they netted two late goals to clinch a dramatic 2-1 victory.
Looking forward, Dominica is set to face Sint Maarten in their next match on Saturday, November 15, at 4 PM. The team will aim to bounce back and revive their hopes in the tournament.
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Antigua and Barbuda Successfully Host the 2025 Travel Agency Owners Forum
In a landmark event for the Caribbean tourism industry, Antigua and Barbuda successfully hosted the 2025 Travel Agency Owners Forum from October 25 to 29, 2025. This prestigious gathering, held at Pineapple Beach Club Antigua and The Verandah All-Inclusive Resorts, marked the first time a travel industry forum of this scale was staged outside the United States. The event brought together 70 prominent U.S.-based leisure travel agency owners, collectively responsible for over $800 million in annual bookings, underscoring the Caribbean’s growing influence as a top destination for high-value travel experiences. Over four days, attendees participated in a dynamic agenda featuring B2B meetings, educational panels, networking events, and immersive destination experiences. These activities highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s rich culture, exceptional hospitality, and world-class tourism infrastructure. Key experiences included resort showcases, cultural excursions, and site visits at premier properties such as The Verandah Resort and Spa, Pineapple Beach Club Antigua, Hammock Cove Antigua, Royalton Resort and Spa, and Sandals Grande Antigua. The Forum also featured a lineup of industry thought leaders, including Shayla Northcutt of Northcutt Travel Agency, Jeff Ment of Ment Law Group, and Christopher Lingren of Wonderful Adventure Travel Group, who shared insights on topics ranging from business efficiency to legal considerations and the human side of travel. Dean Fenton, U.S. Director for the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, expressed pride in hosting the event, stating, ‘This Forum not only showcased our islands’ incredible hospitality but also positioned Antigua and Barbuda as a leading destination for global trade engagement and high-value travel experiences.’ The event’s success underscores the Caribbean’s rising prominence in the global travel industry and its ability to attract influential decision-makers shaping travel trends worldwide.
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Budna Investigation: ‘Too Late to Put the Genie Back in the Bottle’
The Joseph Budna abduction case has taken a contentious turn, with Attorney Arthur Saldivar accusing the State of irreversible mismanagement and deliberate concealment of critical information. Saldivar likened the situation to “trying to put the genie back in the bottle,” emphasizing that the government’s actions have created a pattern of secrecy that the court must now address. He revealed that the government has filed two strikeout applications, a move he described as a standard tactic to delay or dismiss the proceedings. Saldivar further asserted that the State has withheld essential evidence, including unaltered video footage, and highlighted the failure of police officers to act as a significant part of the case. “When individuals with a legal duty fail to act, it constitutes an offense,” he stated. The case regained public attention this week when Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl-Lynn Vidal confirmed receiving the case file from Prime Minister John Briceño. Vidal described the file as “less than nothing,” noting that it lacks sufficient evidence to warrant any arrests. Saldivar argued that the file should have been sent to the DPP immediately after the August 23 incident, which would have mitigated the ensuing controversy. Budna, abducted in Orange Walk in August, remains imprisoned in Guatemala, while Constable Barrington Flowers, accused of aiding the abduction, denies all allegations and is currently on full-pay suspension.
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Venezuela Mobilises Military as US Forces Build in Caribbean
Venezuela has initiated a comprehensive military mobilization in reaction to the increasing deployment of US forces in the Caribbean. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López declared the activation of land, air, naval, and reserve units, labeling the move as a countermeasure against what he termed an ‘imperialist threat.’ This strategic maneuver, directed by President Nicolás Maduro, also involves the Bolivarian Militia, a civilian reserve established by the late President Hugo Chávez. The escalation follows the arrival of the USS Gerald R. Ford, the US Navy’s largest aircraft carrier, accompanied by a formidable strike group comprising warships, fighter jets, and thousands of military personnel. While the US justifies its deployment as a crackdown on drug trafficking, Venezuelan authorities perceive it as a veiled attempt at regime change. President Trump has recently acknowledged CIA activities in Venezuela and previously hinted at potential military interventions, although US officials assert no immediate plans for such actions. Venezuela’s military response is part of its ‘Independence Plan 200,’ a comprehensive strategy integrating military, militia, and police forces. Despite Maduro’s claim of over 8 million reservists, experts remain skeptical about both the numbers and their operational readiness. CNN reports that the US military presence in the region now surpasses 15,000 personnel.
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Caribbean Educators Push for Higher Standards
The Caribbean higher education sector is undergoing a critical evaluation as the Caribbean Area Network for Quality Assurance in Tertiary Education (CANQATE) convenes its 21st Annual Conference. This landmark event has drawn over 175 education experts, policymakers, and innovators from 15 Caribbean nations to deliberate on enhancing quality assurance mechanisms in tertiary institutions. Deputy Chief Education Officer Terry Westby-Langford emphasized the significance of this gathering, stating, ‘We have a room full of experts sharing their experiences and innovations to navigate the complex landscape of higher education quality assurance.’ A central theme of the conference is the imperative to prioritize students in all accreditation reforms. Dr. Pablo Flores of John Paul the Great College underscored this point, asserting that all efforts must ultimately serve the learner. ‘If we maintain this focus, it will be a tremendous service to Belize and beyond. However, losing sight of the student jeopardizes the entire process,’ he cautioned. The challenge of modernizing standards is compounded by rapid technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). Dr. Ruby Allen from the University of Trinidad and Tobago highlighted the stagnation in regional standards, which have remained largely unchanged since 2010. She called for a collaborative regional effort to update these standards, ensuring they are relevant and effective in the contemporary educational landscape. Westby-Langford also stressed the importance of maintaining the credibility and cross-border recognition of qualifications, a critical factor in a globalized world. The conference, which continues this week, aims to chart a path forward for Caribbean higher education that is both innovative and student-centered.
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Investigation Continues into Kahleel Simon’s Fatal Police Shooting
Authorities are intensifying their probe into the fatal police shooting of 18-year-old Kahleel Simon, who tragically lost his life on his birthday, August 27. Acting Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers informed state media that law enforcement officials are meticulously collecting evidence and witness testimonies. A comprehensive file is being prepared for submission to the Magistrate, preceding a coroner’s inquest. Jeffers also confirmed that an autopsy on Simon’s body has been completed. The incident has ignited widespread community protests, with Simon’s relatives and local residents vehemently claiming that excessive force was employed and that he was not afforded an opportunity to comply before being shot. The case has raised significant concerns about police conduct and the use of force, prompting calls for transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigation.
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Foodhub vacancy: Technical Support Representative
Foodhub Grenada, a prominent player in the online food ordering and delivery sector, is currently hiring a Technical Support Representative to join its dynamic team. This full-time position is pivotal in maintaining the seamless operation of Foodhub’s extensive network of takeaways and restaurants by providing expert technical assistance. The role centers on supporting client equipment and systems, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal efficiency for Foodhub’s partners. Responsibilities include diagnosing and resolving hardware, software, and connectivity issues, guiding clients through installations and updates, and escalating complex problems to senior engineers. Candidates should possess 1–2 years of technical support experience, a strong grasp of networking, and proficiency in troubleshooting EPOS devices, printers, and Android-based tablets. Preferred qualifications include IT certifications and experience in hospitality or retail technology support. Foodhub offers comprehensive training, exposure to advanced technologies, and opportunities for professional growth. Interested applicants can submit their applications via email to [email protected].
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Rotary District Governor pays Courtesy Call to Governor General and Lady Williams
Mrs. Soraya A. J. Warner-Gustave, the Rotary District Governor of District 7030, which encompasses the Southern Caribbean and South America, recently made an official visit to Antigua and Barbuda. During her trip, she paid a courtesy call to His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, the Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Her Excellency Lady Sandra Williams, the Governor General’s Goodwill Emissary. The visit underscored the longstanding relationship between Rotary International and the twin-island nation. Sir Rodney warmly welcomed Mrs. Warner-Gustave and commended the Rotary Clubs for their impactful contributions, particularly in youth development, their support for the Sir Lester Bird Mount St. John’s Medical Centre, and their unwavering commitment to humanitarian service and peacebuilding. The District Governor also spotlighted the upcoming Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), set to take place in Antigua and Barbuda this weekend. The event will bring together over 150 regional participants and approximately 100 local Interact members for a three-day youth development workshop. Lady Sandra Williams, President of the Halo Foundation, extended an invitation to the Rotary team to continue their collaborative efforts, referencing past joint initiatives such as the ‘Meals on Wheels’ program. The Rotary Club of Antigua has enjoyed the patronage of Their Excellencies since 2014. Mrs. Warner-Gustave was accompanied by Assistant Governor Jonah Ormond, along with representatives from the Rotary Club of Antigua, including President Elisa Graham, and President Nicole Stevens of the Rotary Club of Antigua (Sundown).