For a nation that has appeared on football’s biggest stage only twice, every World Cup goal carries a special place in Haiti’s history.
From Emmanuel “Manno” Sanon’s unforgettable strikes in 1974 to the historic goals scored by Lenny Joseph and Wilson Isidor in 2026, Haiti has scored just four goals at the FIFA World Cup. Each one represents more than a point on the scoreboard—it tells the story of a nation that continues to inspire the world through resilience, determination, and pride.
Haiti’s Historic Debut in 1974
Haiti made its FIFA World Cup debut at the 1974 tournament in West Germany, becoming the first Caribbean nation to qualify through the CONCACAF Championship. Drawn into a difficult group alongside Italy, Poland, and Argentina, Les Grenadiers faced some of the world’s strongest teams.
Although Haiti did not advance beyond the group stage, Emmanuel “Manno” Sanon delivered two moments that forever changed Haitian football history.
Goal No. 1: Emmanuel “Manno” Sanon vs. Italy
On June 15, 1974, Sanon scored one of the most celebrated goals in World Cup history against Italy. Racing onto a through ball, he beat legendary goalkeeper Dino Zoff before calmly finishing into the net.
The goal not only gave Haiti a surprise lead but also ended Zoff’s remarkable World Cup scoreless streak, making Sanon’s name known around the world.
Goal No. 2: Emmanuel “Manno” Sanon vs. Argentina
Sanon struck again in Haiti’s final group-stage match against Argentina, scoring Haiti’s lone goal in a 4-1 defeat. It was another display of his composure and finishing ability against one of football’s traditional powerhouses.
Sanon finished his international career with 37 goals in 65 appearances and remains one of the greatest players in Haitian football history.
Haiti Returns to the World Cup After 52 Years
More than five decades later, Les Grenadiers returned to the FIFA World Cup in 2026, ending a 52-year absence and reigniting pride across Haiti and the global diaspora.
While the tournament presented tough competition, Haiti once again made history by adding two new names to its World Cup scoring legacy.
Goal No. 3: Lenny Joseph vs. Morocco
Against Morocco, Lenny Joseph scored Haiti’s first World Cup goal since 1974, ending a 52-year scoring drought on football’s biggest stage.
The goal sparked celebrations across Haiti and Haitian communities around the world, serving as a powerful reminder that Les Grenadiers had returned to where they belong.
Goal No. 4: Wilson Isidor vs. Morocco
Later in the same match, Wilson Isidor added Haiti’s fourth World Cup goal with a composed finish that gave supporters another unforgettable moment to celebrate.
Although Haiti’s 2026 World Cup journey came to an end after the group stage, Joseph and Isidor ensured that this generation of Grenadiers would forever be part of the nation’s football history.
A Legacy That Continues to Grow
From Manno Sanon’s legendary goals in 1974 to the memorable strikes by Lenny Joseph and Wilson Isidor in 2026, Haiti’s four World Cup goals represent far more than statistics.
They are symbols of perseverance, national pride, and hope for future generations of Haitian footballers.
As Les Grenadiers continue to build for the future, these four goals will remain lasting milestones in Haiti’s journey on the world’s biggest sporting stage—proof that when Haiti steps onto the field, it carries the dreams of an entire nation.
