After a winning in a penalty shootout Thursday, the Haitian soccer team with deep ties to North Texas advances to the third round of the amputee World Cup.
On Friday the team takes on Turkey at a 10:30 a.m. game in Culiacán, Mexico. The team is posting updates on its Facebook page.
This is Haiti's first time advancing in the amputee World Cup and only the team's second appearance at the tournament, which began about 30 years ago. The team did not win any games at its first showing in 2010.
In preparing for this year's cup, the Haitian team spent much of November in North Texas. Players worked with area soccer coaches to help improve their tactical skills. They practiced at Toyota Stadium in Frisco and with area schools. Local doctors also donated resources and services to help them.
So far, Haiti beat Germany 2-0 on Sunday and but then lost to Russia 6-1 on Tuesday. Haiti advanced to the second round to face Italy.
Fred Sorrells, of the Arlington-based International Institute of Sport who helped create the team, reports that the game was tied 1-1 and went into overtime. Mackendy Francois, pictured above, scored the game-winning penalty kick.
Francois, like many of his teammates, lost his leg during the deadly 2010 earthquake that devastated Haiti. The team was formed in the wake of that disaster, which players said is helping to change the way Haiti treats at the disabled.
The amputee World Cup concludes on Sunday.
Title : Haitian soccer team advances in the amputee World Cup
Description : After a winning in a penalty shootout Thursday, the Haitian soccer team with deep ties to North Texas advances to the third round of the am...