Curaçao's historic 0-0 draw with Jamaica that secured their first World Cup qualification was described by captain Leandro Bacuna as 'a story written for us'. The Caribbean island, with a population of just 156,000 and an area of 171 square miles, becomes the smallest nation ever to reach a World Cup.
The Plan
A FIFA member since 2011, Curaçao has spent years building towards this moment. As an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the island has drawn on a rich pool of Dutch-raised talent with Curaçaoan roots. The World Cup being hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada gave them an advantage. 'We knew we wouldn't face them in qualifying, which often proved a stumbling block,' said goalkeeper Eloy Room. 'So that became a real trigger for all of us: if there's a chance to reach the World Cup, it's now.'
Key qualifying victories included a 5-1 win over Haiti and a goalless draw with Trinidad, which made the team believe something special was possible. A 2-0 home win against Jamaica followed, and the 0-0 draw in the return leg secured qualification. Curaçao remained unbeaten in all 10 qualifying matches.
'I think God was with us that night,' said Leandro Bacuna. 'Because you've seen the game, everyone's seen the game. Couple of balls on the post ... Everywhere. But our keeper was great, so I think it was meant for us. It was a story written for us.'
To survive a group with Germany, Côte d'Ivoire, and Ecuador would be a huge achievement. 'We do want to continue in the same way we've played in recent years, by playing possession-based football from the back,' says Room. 'But we will have to adapt because we're going to a World Cup where we may have less of the ball than our opponents. Still, we have to stick to our own strengths as we can play good football.'
The Coach
At 78, Dick Advocaat will become the oldest coach to take part in a World Cup, surpassing Otto Rehhagel, who was 71 when he led Greece in 2010. The former Rangers and Sunderland manager took charge in 2024 and guided Curaçao to qualification, one of his finest achievements. In February, he stepped down to be with his ill daughter and was succeeded by Fred Rutten. But when Advocaat's daughter improved, a behind-the-scenes push gathered momentum to bring him back. Rumours circulated that sponsors applied pressure on the federation, and Rutten stepped aside, clearing the way for Advocaat's return.
Star Player
Leandro Bacuna has represented Curaçao for over a decade and played three seasons in the Premier League with Aston Villa. Together with his younger brother Juninho, he leads the team and forms part of one of the island's best-known football families. Leandro is hugely popular among the local population, often helping with team luggage or other tasks on international trips.
One to Watch
Livano Comenencia spent nine years at PSV's academy, then two seasons with their reserve side. After representing Dutch youth teams, he moved to Juventus in 2023 and now plays for FC Zürich. The midfielder underlined his importance with a crucial goal in the 2-0 win over Jamaica. Technically polished, he combines composure with the engine of a classic box-to-box midfielder.
Unsung Hero
Juriën Gaari was selected for Curaçao while playing for Dutch amateur side Kozakken Boys and was part of the Caribbean Cup win and first Gold Cup participation in 2017. Now with nearly 60 caps, the defender commands respect despite never seeking the spotlight.
What to Expect from Fans
It is all singing and dancing, the Caribbean vibe wrapped in warm exuberance. After qualification, music artist Jeon released 'Mama Wa'', a song dedicated to the Blue Wave. Estimates suggest more than 3,000 fans will travel for the opening match against Germany, with charter flights arranged from the island.
Relationship with the US/Trump
Curaçao takes a pragmatic view of the United States, viewing it through regional stability and economics. Foreign affairs are handled by the Netherlands. High prices threaten to limit travelling support. 'This is not affordable for the average person in Curaçao,' said performance coach Angelo Cijntje. 'People will do everything they can, but it's a real pity FIFA and the US are making it so difficult.'
