Honduras' 1-0 victory at El Salvador, which earned the tiny, troubled Central American nation a place in next year's World Cup, drove thousands to the streets on Wednesday to celebrate in the capital Tegucigalpa.
Honduras needed a little help to reach the final 32 in South Africa next summer.
That came in Washington, DC, where Jonathan Bornstein headed in the equaliser in the fifth minute of injury time to give the United States a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica. Costa Rica needed only to hold the lead a few more seconds to get the automatic berth. Instead, Honduras qualify and Costa Rica face a two-game play-off in November against South America's No. 5 team Uruguay for another berth
Argentina defeated Uruguay 1-0 on Wednesday to claim South America's last automatic berth.
The United States finished No. 1 in the CONCACAF qualifying group with 20 points. Mexico, who drew 2-2 at Trinidad and Tobago in a largely meaningless game, finished with 19. Honduras and Costa Rica both had 16, but Honduras advanced on superior goal difference. El Salvador finished with eight and Trinidad had six.
Political unrest
Honduras' victorious football team seemed to unite the country - at least temporarily.
The impoverished Central American country has been beset by political unrest since June 28 when the military detained President Manuel Zelaya and sent him into exile with Roberto Micheletti taking over the presidency.
The hero was Carlos Pavon, who scored the winner in the 64th.
Pavon's goal came as he met a cross from David Suazo, striking a firm header to the delight of fans in Cuscatlan Stadium.
Suspension
In the American's late draw with Costa Rica, Bryan Ruiz scored twice in a four minute-span in the first half to give Costa Rica a 2-0 lead. Michael Bradley cut the United States deficit in the 72nd minute to set the stage for Bornstein.
New Costa Rica coach Rene Simoes was ejected in the 88th minute after arguing with officials and faces a possible suspension by FIFA from one or both play-off games. The first leg will be November 14 in Costa Rica, and the second November 18 in Uruguay.