Curacao created a stunning football milestone by becoming the smallest nation to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Their historic achievement came after a tense 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston. The island, home to just over 150,000 people, now replaces Iceland as the smallest nation to appear at a World Cup.
Curacao’s rise has been extraordinary. The team climbed from 150th to 82nd in FIFA rankings within ten years. The island became an autonomous country in 2010, and its football structure has strengthened steadily since then. The current squad finished the Concacaf qualifiers unbeaten in ten matches. They won seven games and showed remarkable consistency throughout the campaign.
Their final match brought late drama. Jamaica earned a stoppage-time penalty that threatened Curacao’s dream. However, VAR reviewed the incident and cancelled the decision, shocking the home crowd. The draw later led to Steve McClaren’s resignation as Jamaica’s head coach.
Before the match, midfielder Juninho Bacuna expressed his excitement. “It’s crazy and would be one of the biggest things that will happen to Curacao,” he said.
He continued: “It’s incredible and amazing. Even a few years ago you would not even think about it.”
Dick Advocaat Guides Curacao to a Historic Breakthrough
Curacao will now enter the World Cup under Dutch veteran Dick Advocaat, who becomes the oldest manager in tournament history. He is 78 and carries decades of experience. His leadership has brought new discipline and structure to the squad. Bacuna praised his influence, saying:
“Everyone knows Dick Advocaat is a big name… his impact has been really big.”
Many players in the team were born in the Netherlands but have Curacaoan roots. They include players from Livingston, Rotherham, Middlesbrough and Sheffield United. Bacuna also chose Curacao over the Netherlands because of family ties and better opportunities. He believes the country’s progress will attract more young Dutch-Caribbean players.
Curacao will join Haiti and Panama at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Their qualification marks a proud moment for the region and a new chapter in Caribbean football.
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