By: Mythsouka Jean-Philippe

The shortage of goalkeepers for the Haitian national football team is a major problem looming on the horizon for our senior women’s national team. As we prepare for upcoming international tournaments and competitions, it has become evident that we lack talented and experienced goalkeepers to protect our net. However, due to this deficiency, Haiti could miss the international tournaments in July.

Currently, Kerly Théus is the team’s starting goalkeeper. Unfortunately, she plays in low-level championships that do not allow her to fully develop her potential. Playing in the American D4 championship, according to the editorial staff; National coach Frédéric Gonçalves does not feel satisfied since the player has a lack of consistency per season. He thinks that a new challenge in this position can help the national team. For our team to compete at the international level, it is crucial to have a goalkeeper who can measure up to the best players in the world.

In addition, another challenge arises with players with dual nationality. Although they may be eligible to represent the Haitian national team, they have not yet given their consent. It is essential to engage in discussions and find ways to encourage these players to join our national team. Their experience and talent could make a real difference on the field. Unfortunately, players like Océane Toussaint are still reluctant to take Haitian sporting nationality. Maureen Saint-Léger, the FHF is running behind the clock.

The goalkeeper shortage has a significant impact on our Haitian senior women’s national team. Without a strong and competent goalkeeper, we risk compromising our performance and our chances of success in international competitions. It is imperative that we take steps now to remedy this situation with high-level goalkeepers who know the big competitions. For those, we must necessarily rethink our women’s football.

One possible solution would be to implement goalkeeper development programs from a young age. By identifying and training young talent, we could ensure a pool of competent goalkeepers for the future of our women’s national team. Efforts should also be stepped up to recruit and monitor dual national players, in order to convince them to represent our country on the international stage.

Haitian women’s football has had notable success in the past, and it is time to redouble our efforts to ensure a bright future for our senior national team. By overcoming this goalkeeping problem, we could strengthen our team and inspire a new generation of young Haitian players to pursue their dreams on the pitch.

It is essential that governing bodies, clubs, coaches and players themselves step up to address this issue. By working together, we can overcome this gap and empower the Haitian women’s national team to shine on the international stage.

The future of our Haitian women’s national team depends on our ability to address the goalkeeper shortage. It is time to take concrete steps to attract and develop new talent, and encourage dual national players to proudly represent our country. With a complete and competitive team, we can aspire to great achievements and continue to shine the spotlight on Haitian women’s football around the world.