Les Grenadiers meet Miami diaspora as World Cup countdown hits 10 days

Ten days before the tournament kicks off, Haiti's World Cup preparations moved visibly off the pitch. On Saturday, May 30, members of the national squad — including striker Duckens Nazon and defender Martin — appeared on stage at a Haitian Heritage Month event in North Miami, drawing an emotional crowd that pressed against the stage in the rain, waving Haitian flags and blowing conch shells. The AP covered the scene, signalling the reach of Haiti's historic return to the World Cup.

The squad itself was confirmed on May 15 by head coach Sébastien Migné: 26 players drawn almost entirely from the diaspora, representing clubs across Europe, North America, South America and Asia — with only one player from Haiti's domestic league. MLS contributors include Philadelphia Union midfielder Danley Jean Jacques, FC Dallas forward Louicius Deedson and Toronto FC forward Derrick Etienne Jr. Versatile 22-year-old Carl Sainté (ex-North Texas SC) was named as a midfielder. Forward Frantzdy Pierrot, raised in Massachusetts and on loan at Çaykur Rizespor in Turkey's Süper Lig this season, scored twice in qualifying, including a decisive goal against Costa Rica.

Haiti are placed in Group C alongside Brazil, Morocco and Scotland. Their opening match is June 14 against Scotland. In Haiti, Tele Haiti and Canal+ Haiti hold broadcast rights.