Suriname vs Guatemala - CONCACAF Nations League

When Suriname and Guatemala clash at Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed Stadion on October 2, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a CONCACAF Nations League fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. He experienced victory in his only Old Firm appearance as a Gers player, but Sunday will be his first taste of the fixture in the dugout.

There is little to choose between Suriname and Guatemala on paper, and the CONCACAF Nations League encounter should reflect that balance. Suriname will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. Guatemala will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. Tim Sherwood makes his predictions for the new Premier League season, including who he thinks will make the top four in the table.

Wing play is likely to be central to the contest. Suriname will look to stretch the pitch and isolate their wide attackers, while Guatemala must find a way to compress the space and choke the supply lines. There is interest in adding another forward player who can play in one of those wide No 10 roles behind the striker in the 3-4-2-1 formation that Sage is expected to continue with at Selhurst Park.

In fixtures as finely poised as this one, it often comes down to who holds their nerve in the big moments — and both camps have players who relish that responsibility. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. There have been comparisons made between the left-footed Kukonki and Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. The signals point towards a stalemate, with the two sides closely matched across form and standings. A 1-1 draw is easy to envisage. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Joe Gomez is expected to miss the start of Liverpool's Premier League campaign through injury - but it is not likely to impact the Reds' transfer plans.