In a historic achievement for Curacao, the Caribbean island has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the first time ever. With a population slightly surpassing 150,000, this qualifies them for the global football spectacle in 2026, making it a monumental moment for this small nation.

The achievement is even more remarkable compared to past instances, as the smallest nation to qualify before them was Iceland in 2018, a country with a significantly larger population. Spanning just 171 square miles, Curacao now joins the ranks of top footballing nations around the world.

A decade ago, Curacao was ranked 150th in FIFA’s standings. Today, they boast an impressive 82nd position, a testament to their rigorous training, skilled coaching, and the talent of their players who aspired to achieve greatness.

Since becoming a nation within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 2010, following its history as part of the Netherlands Antilles, Curacao has developed a prominent football program that has led them to this pinnacle.

Their qualification journey was marked by ten matches, seven victories, and an unbeaten campaign, reflecting their commitment, teamwork, and tactical discipline throughout the entire process.

The climax of their final match saw tension rise when a potential penalty was awarded against them in the fourth minute of stoppage time. However, after a video review, the penalty was rescinded, allowing Curacao to breathe a sigh of relief as their dream of the World Cup remained intact. Celebrations erupted across the island as the match concluded.

Curacao will make their debut alongside other first-time qualifiers such as Cape Verde, Uzbekistan, and Jordan at the 2026 World Cup, which has expanded from 32 to 48 teams, creating more slots for nations hoping to participate.

With the host countries Canada, Mexico, and the USA already qualified, additional slots opened up, which Curacao seized effectively to cement this historic milestone.

Before the final game, midfielder Juninho Bacuna expressed the significance of this accomplishment, highlighting that it would represent one of Curacao's finest moments, a sentiment that resonated with the unexpected yet joyful outcome.

Notably, Curacao's coach Dick Advocaat, aged 78, will set the record as the oldest coach to lead a team at the World Cup, surpassing the previous record from 2010.

The World Cup will also feature Haiti and Panama, with Haiti qualifying for the first time since 1974 after a robust win, while Panama has confirmed its participation.

Unfortunately, Jamaica will have to vie for a spot in the Intercontinental Play-Offs after missing direct qualification.

Curacao’s successful journey toward qualification embodies a tale of perseverance and ambition for a nation that dared to dream. Both the team and the island now eagerly anticipate the opportunity to represent their homeland on the grandest football stage.