Curacao has made football history by becoming the smallest nation ever to qualify for a World Cup.
The tiny Caribbean island, with just over 150,000 residents and 171 square miles of land, sealed their place after a 0-0 draw with Jamaica. Their achievement surpasses Iceland’s 2018 record.
By comparison, the island is smaller than England’s Isle of Man and has a population like Cambridge or Huddersfield. The draw left Jamaica, desperate to reach their first World Cup since 1998, stunned and eliminated.
Jamaica coach Steve McClaren resigned immediately after the match, while Curacao celebrated a historic moment in sport. Their qualification is a testament to years of progress, strategic coaching, and the dedication of players both local and Netherlands-born.
Dick Advocaat becomes oldest coach in World Cup history
Dutchman Dick Advocaat, 78, will become the oldest manager in World Cup history, surpassing Otto Rehhagel’s previous record. Advocaat has previously coached eight national sides, including the Netherlands, Belgium, South Korea, and Russia. He only assumed the Curacao role after resolving disputes with the national football association.
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His experience and leadership have transformed the squad, which includes Dutch-born talents with Curacaoan heritage. Players like Tahith Chong, Joshua Brenet, Sontje Hansen, and Ar’jany Martha bring European experience, boosting the team’s quality. Advocaat’s impact has been key in preparing the team for the 2026 tournament.
Curacao has thrived in qualifying, winning seven of ten matches and remaining unbeaten. Midfielder Juninho Bacuna highlighted the pride of representing the island and playing alongside his older brother, captain Leandro. He called the achievement “incredible” and predicted it will inspire future generations of players.
Curacao’s growth and future potential
The expanded 48-team World Cup format for 2026 provided a crucial opportunity for debutants like Curacao. Hosts Canada, Mexico, and the United States automatically qualify, while four new nations, including Cape Verde, Jordan, and Uzbekistan, join the Caribbean side.
Bacuna emphasised that Curacao’s progress will attract more Dutch-born talent with family ties to the island. The Blue Family’s growing reputation demonstrates how smaller nations can now compete at the highest level.
Their historic World Cup berth represents a triumph for a tiny nation with bold ambition.
Tags: Curacao, smallest nation to qualify for World Cup, #FIFAWCQ, 2026 FIFA World Cup, Tahith Chong, Juninho Bacuna, Dick Advocaat, Caribbean Island, Jamaica, Steve McClaren, Otto Rehhagel.
