The World Cup qualification match set for Friday between Costa Rica and Honduras is postponed until Saturday because of heavy rains and flooding.
The game was scheduled to begin Friday at 10 p.m. ET but the start time has been pushed back to Saturday at 6 p.m. ET.
Costa Rica 4/5 to beat Honduras
Tropical Storm Nate has brought heavy rains to Costa Rica, causing the government to declare a state of emergency and close schools. Six storm-related deaths have been reported. With emergency officials busy working to rescue those affected, officials elected to allow policemen and others who would be required at the match to continue with their efforts.
"I think a lot of times you have to leave football to the side. I don't want to be interpreted wrong, but the country is going through a difficult situation," Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas said at a news conference. "There are families where things are going poorly, Costa Rica is totally flooded. We hope God stops the rain and everyone will be good and when we have to play the game that we can qualify for the World Cup."
The match postponement had to be approved by FIFA, but Costa Rica FA President Rodolfo Villalobos confirmed Thursday that the governing body was willing to accommodate the switch.
