Catching up with Roger Espinoza
Wizards midfielder sits down for Q&A on his breakthrough for Honduras
Q: What did it feel like the first time you pulled on the Honduras jersey?
A) I felt very happy and excited to be wearing the Honduran jersey and representing the country I was born in.
Q: Then what did it feel like once you entered the match in the opening game of the UNCAF Nations Cup?
A) I was very proud because it was a dream come true as a kid I always wanted to play for the national team of my country. It was also a very special moment for me because the game was played in Honduras in front of a Honduran crowd.
Q: Did coach Reinaldo Rueda give you any final advice before you went into that game?
A) He just told me to be mentally prepared and keep possession of the ball since we were winning 2-0, but he also said just have fun and do what you do best.
Q: What lessons have you learned as a soccer player while with the National Team?
A) Many of the players here have played all over the world and have been in the national team for many years. When they talked to me about how I need to do things in the field, I listen to them because their experience in professional soccer has been longer than what I have experienced.
Q: Have some of your family members been able to watch you play?
A) I have a lot of family here in Honduras and some of them have taken the time to come visit me at the hotel I'm staying in. They also came to the games and are coming to the semifinal game and last match.
Q: When was the last time they saw you on a soccer field?
A) The last time they saw me it was when I played club soccer growing up in Honduras, which was about ten years ago. They saw me play MLS games on TV, but for them to see me in the opening match of the UNCAF Nations Cup was very special for them.
Q: How has going back to Honduras made you feel about your life as a professional athlete in the U.S.?
A) I feel very lucky to play in the MLS because now that I have come and had the chance to talk to my teammates in the national team, many of them want to play in the MLS.
Q: Who have you become closest with on the Honduras squad?
A) My roommate is Noel Valladares the goalkeeper, so I talk to him the most, but I get along with everyone in the team.
