The Soccer War

The Soccer War, also known as the 1969 Honduras-El Salvador Football War, was a brief conflict between Honduras and El Salvador. It was triggered by tensions over immigration, land disputes, and social issues, with a significant catalyst being intense football (soccer) matches between the countries. The matches heightened existing grievances, leading to violent clashes and eventually military confrontation. The war lasted about four days, resulting in casualties and displacements. It underscores how sports can sometimes ignite underlying political and social tensions, though the actual conflict was rooted in deeper issues beyond just football.