Honduras

WORLD CUP HISTORY: South Africa will be only the second time Honduras has qualified for a World Cup. In 1982, the Hondurans went winless but did manage to draw the hosts Spain and group winners Northern Ireland before a loss to Yugoslavia ended their hopes at moving on to the next stage.

QUALIFICATION: Qualifying was a path laden with obstacles for Honduras. CONCACAF is always a tough region to advance from, and it took to the final day for Honduras to book their place in South Africa. A 1-0 win over El Salvador and a Jonathan Bornstein goal in the dying seconds of an American draw with Costa Rica ensured Honduras their spot.

KEY PLAYER: Wilson Palacios. Honduras qualified on a base of strong defence, conceding the fewest goals in the final qualifying round. Much of that can be contributed to their man in the middle, Palacios. The Tottenham man is one of the very best in the business at doing the tireless, thankless work of a defensive midfielder. Honduras has solid firepower up front in David Suazo and Carlos Pavon, but in Palacios they have a difference maker.

EXPECTATIONS: The Hondurans find themselves in a tough Group H. Spain, Chile and Switzerland are tough opponents to be sure. With the European champs expected to emerge on top of the group, it will be a battle for second spot. Honduras is a side able to match up well with most teams, but reaching the Round of 16 will be a challenge.