Bolivia rallies to beat Suriname, Set up Playoff Final with Iraq

Bolivia came from behind to defeat Suriname 2-1 in their inter confederation playoff semi final in Monterrey, keeping alive hopes of a first World Cup appearance since 1994.

The South American side will face Iraq in Wednesday’s playoff final for a place at the tournament in Group I. 

Suriname’s bid to reach the finals for the first time ended after surrendering an early second half lead.

Suriname took the advantage three minutes after the restart. Liam van Gelderen reacted fastest to a goalmouth scramble, capitalizing on a loose ball after goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra failed to clear and finishing from close range.

Bolivia equalized in the 72nd minute through substitute Moises Paniagua, who latched onto a deflected ball and guided a low finish into the far corner.

The comeback was completed seven minutes later when Bolivia was awarded a penalty following a foul by Myenty Abena on Juan Godoy. Miguel Terceros converted from the spot in the 79th minute to seal the win.

The match was played in front of a largely Bolivian crowd at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey. FIFA president Gianni Infantino was in attendance at the venue, which is set to host four matches during the World Cup.