Hey there, football fans! If you’re into the beautiful game, especially the intense rivalries in Central America, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving into the exciting world of matches between the el salvador national football team vs guatemala national football team matches , often called Los Chapines. This is one of those classic showdowns that gets hearts racing and stadiums buzzing. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or just curious about international soccer, I’ll break it all down in a simple, easy-to-follow way. We’ll look at their shared history, key games, standout players, and what makes these clashes so special. Grab a seat, and let’s kick off!
The Roots of the el salvador national football team vs guatemala national football team matches Rivalry: How It All Began
Football in Central America has always been more than just a sport—it’s a way of life, uniting communities and sparking national pride. el salvador national football team vs guatemala national football team matches, two neighboring countries with deep cultural ties, first locked horns on the pitch back in the early 20th century. Their first official meeting dates back to 1921, during the Independence Centenary Games in Guatemala City. El Salvador, still finding their feet in international play, faced off against Costa Rica and others in a tournament celebrating 100 years of Central American independence. Though they didn’t win that one (losing 7-0 to Costa Rica), it marked the start of a long-standing connection between the two nations’ teams.
Over the decades, these matches have grown into a fierce rivalry. Why? Well, geography plays a big role—they share a border, so games feel like neighborhood battles. Plus, both teams have had their ups and downs in regional tournaments, often fighting for the same spots in bigger events like the CONCACAF Gold Cup or World Cup qualifiers. Fans from both sides bring incredible energy, with chants, flags, and sometimes even a bit of friendly trash-talk. It’s the kind of rivalry that reminds you why we love soccer: the passion, the drama, and the unpredictability.
According to historical records, the two teams have played over 75 official matches since that 1921 encounter. Guatemala holds the edge with around 36 wins, while El Salvador has 17 victories, and there have been 23 draws. But don’t let the numbers fool you—every game feels like it could go either way. These matches often happen in qualifiers for major tournaments, where points are precious, adding even more stakes.
el salvador national football team vs guatemala national football team matches Head-to-Head Records: Who Has the Upper Hand?
Let’s get into the stats, because numbers tell a great story. Over the years, Guatemala has generally come out on top in this rivalry, but El Salvador has pulled off some memorable upsets. Here’s a quick overview of their overall head-to-head record based on recent data from sources like AiScore and FotMob:
| Category | Guatemala Wins | El Salvador Wins | Draws | Total Goals (Guatemala : El Salvador) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All-Time (Since 1921) | 36 | 17 | 23 | Approximately 120 : 80 |
| Since 2007 (19 Matches) | 9 | 4 | 6 | 20 : 11 |
| World Cup Qualifiers (10 Matches) | 3 | 3 | 3 | Tied in wins, low-scoring affairs |
| Recent 5 Matches | 1 | 2 | 2 | Low goals, mostly under 2.5 total |
As you can see, the games are usually tight—think low-scoring battles where defense wins the day. In the last five encounters, both teams have shown resilience, with El Salvador edging recent form. For instance, their average goals per match hover around 1.8, making for tense, edge-of-your-seat action. Guatemala’s home advantage often shines through, but El Salvador’s counter-attacks can surprise anyone.
In FIFA World Cup qualifiers specifically, it’s been even more balanced. They’ve met 10 times, with each side winning three and drawing three. The last qualifier clash was way back in 2000 during the 2002 World Cup cycle, where El Salvador won 1-0 at home thanks to a Raúl Díaz Arce strike, but they drew 1-1 away. These games are crucial because both nations dream of returning to the World Cup stage—El Salvador last appeared in 1982, while Guatemala has never qualified.
Historical Matches: The Ones That Shaped the el salvador national football team vs guatemala national football team matches Rivalry
Every rivalry has its iconic moments, and el salvador national football team vs guatemala national football team matches is no exception. Let’s stroll down memory lane and highlight some standout games that fans still talk about.
One of the earliest big ones was in 1943, during the CCCF Championship in San Salvador (that’s the old Central American tournament). El Salvador hosted and won their first title, beating Guatemala in the process after a playoff drama—Guatemala didn’t show up for the decider, handing the win to La Selecta. It was a 10-1 thrashing of Nicaragua in the semis that stole the show, but the Guatemala rivalry was already heating up.
Fast forward to the 1960s and 70s, when both teams were pushing for World Cup spots. In the 1978 qualifiers, they drew 2-2 in Mexico City—a neutral venue that felt like a war zone with passionate fans from both sides. Sergio Rivera scored twice for Guatemala, while El Salvador’s Elmer Rosas and Norberto “Pajarito” Huezo replied. That draw kept both alive, but it showed the grit on display.
The 1980s brought more intensity. During the 1982 World Cup qualifiers, El Salvador edged past Guatemala in group play, helping them secure their second-ever World Cup berth. But off the pitch, tensions were high due to the infamous “Football War” with Honduras in 1969—though not directly with Guatemala, it highlighted how soccer can stir emotions in the region.
In friendlies and regional cups, there have been thrillers too. Take the 2001 UNCAF Nations Cup: El Salvador beat Guatemala 1-0 in the group stage with a Santos Cabrera goal, advancing to the Gold Cup quarters for the first time. More recently, in the 2023 CONCACAF Nations League, Guatemala won 2-0 at home, showcasing their defensive solidity.
And who can forget the 2024 friendly where El Salvador snatched a 1-0 win in Guatemala? It was a gritty performance, with La Selecta holding firm against waves of attacks. These moments build the lore—wins, losses, and draws that fuel the fire for the next clash.
Recent Matches: The Modern Chapter of the el salvador national football team vs guatemala national football team matches Rivalry
The 2020s have kept the excitement alive, with both teams using these games to build toward bigger goals like the 2026 World Cup (hosted in North America, so qualification feels extra close to home). Let’s recap the last few encounters, which have been packed with drama.
- July 27, 2024: Guatemala 0-1 El Salvador (Friendly) Played in San Salvador, this was a tight affair. El Salvador’s defense, led by Henry Romero, frustrated Guatemala’s attacks. The lone goal came from a quick counter in the second half, giving La Selecta a morale boost ahead of Gold Cup prep. Attendance was electric, with fans creating a wall of noise.
- September 7, 2023: Guatemala 2-0 El Salvador (CONCACAF Nations League) At Estadio Cementos Progreso, Guatemala dominated. Goals from Oscar Santis and Rubio Rubin sealed it, putting El Salvador in a tough spot in League A. It was a reminder of Guatemala’s home strength— they controlled 60% possession and fired off 15 shots.
- June 1, 2025: El Salvador 1-1 Guatemala (Friendly) In Chattanooga, Tennessee (a neutral US venue), the teams shared the spoils. Brayan Gil scored for El Salvador early, but Olger Escobar equalized late for Guatemala. It was a physical battle with five yellows, ending in a well-deserved draw as both tested new lineups.
- September 5, 2025: Guatemala 0-1 El Salvador (World Cup Qualifier) Just days ago, in the third round of 2026 qualifiers, El Salvador pulled off a massive upset! Playing away at Estadio Cementos Progreso, they defended heroically. Mario Gonzalez made five saves, and Styven Vasquez’s second-half strike won it 1-0. Guatemala had 71% possession and 19 shots but couldn’t break through. This result puts El Salvador top of Group A with three points, while Guatemala sits fourth. What a start to the campaign!
These recent games show a trend: low scores (under 2.5 goals in four of the last five), but high intensity. El Salvador has won two of the last five, flipping the script on Guatemala’s historical dominance.
Key Players and Tactical Battles
What makes these matches tick? It’s the players who shine under pressure. For El Salvador, Darwin Ceren is the midfield maestro—experienced, with over 90 caps, he dictates play and links defense to attack. Up front, Brayan Gil and Styven Vasquez bring speed and flair, as seen in their goal against Guatemala last week. Goalkeeper Mario Gonzalez has been a rock, especially in big saves during qualifiers.
Guatemala boasts talents like Oscar Santis, a versatile forward with three goals in recent qualifiers, and Rubio Rubin, who plays in MLS and adds international class. Young star Olger Escobar, fresh off a Gold Cup Young Player award, is one to watch—he scored twice in the 2025 Gold Cup semis run. Defensively, Aaron Herrera anchors the backline.
Tactically, Guatemala under coach Luis Fernando Tena favors possession-based play (often 60%+), pressing high to create chances. El Salvador, led by Hernán Darío Gómez, counters that with a compact 4-4-2, absorbing pressure and hitting on the break. It’s cat-and-mouse stuff—Guatemala probes, El Salvador pounces. In the latest qualifier, El Salvador’s discipline (only one corner conceded) neutralized Guatemala’s attacks perfectly.
Both teams are mid-tier in CONCACAF: Guatemala ranks around 100th globally in FIFA standings, while El Salvador is a bit lower at about 80th in regional terms, but recent wins have boosted them. Their Gold Cup showings—Guatemala’s semi-final run in 2025 vs. El Salvador’s group struggles—highlight the gap, but qualifiers level the field.
The Bigger Picture: Tournaments and World Cup Dreams
These matches don’t happen in a vacuum—they’re part of grander quests. Both teams compete in CONCACAF events like the Gold Cup and Nations League, where they’ve met often. Guatemala won the 1967 CONCACAF Championship (the old Gold Cup equivalent), while El Salvador claimed three CCCF titles in the 1940s-50s.
For the World Cup, it’s been tough. El Salvador’s 1970 and 1982 appearances (both group exits) remain highlights, but they’ve struggled since. Guatemala has reached final qualifiers four times but never made it. Now, with 2026 co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, the pressure is on. The recent 0-1 win for El Salvador in qualifiers is huge—it kicks off Group A strongly, with Jamaica and Panama lurking.
Looking ahead, expect more clashes. The return leg in November 2025 could be explosive, and friendlies will keep the rivalry simmering. Both coaches are blending youth and experience: Tena’s Guatemala eyes a historic breakthrough, while Gómez’s El Salvador aims to relive past glories.
Why This el salvador national football team vs guatemala national football team matches Rivalry Matters Today
In a world of global superstars, Central American soccer like el salvador national football team vs guatemala national football team matches reminds us of the game’s roots—community, heart, and unbreakable spirit. These matches unite families, spark debates in cafes, and inspire kids to pick up a ball. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, every point counts, and this rivalry could decide who gets closer to the dream.
