Eloy Room, a 37-year-old goalkeeper who has spent most of his career on the bench in the Eredivisie, delivered one of the greatest performances in World Cup history to earn Curaçao a historic first point at the finals. Room made 15 saves against Ecuador, falling just one short of Tim Howard's record for the most saves in a single men's World Cup match, set in 2014.
Historic Achievement for the Smallest Nation
With a population of just 160,000, Curaçao is the smallest nation ever to qualify for a World Cup. Their 0-0 draw against Ecuador, ranked 83rd by FIFA, came after a 7-1 thrashing by Germany. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands watched from the stands, and the queen later kissed Room in the dressing room.
“I still have to process it myself,” Room said. “I’m a bit annoyed that I didn’t get the record in the end but I think Tim Howard was sweating on it a bit.”
Advocaat's Emotional Return
Dick Advocaat, the oldest manager at the tournament, stepped down in February due to his daughter's health but returned last month. He was in tears at the final whistle. “I’m so proud,” he said. “We have come from nothing and they fought like lions. It will be a big party on the island tonight and they deserve it.”
Ecuador's Frustration
Ecuador, who had 27 shots on goal, left the field to jeers from their fans. Coach Sebastián Beccacece said, “There are things you cannot explain in football – we’ve had 27 shots on goal but we couldn’t score. It is normal to feel this pain but we still have a chance to put things right.” Ecuador must beat Germany in their final match to advance.
Match Highlights
Enner Valencia had the best early chance, but Room pushed his shot around the post. Ecuador dominated possession but could not beat Room, who made saves from Moisés Caicedo, Kevin Rodríguez, and others. Curaçao also had chances on the break, with Juninho Bacuna and his brother Leandro threatening. Ecuador hit the woodwork through Ángelo Preciado, and Valencia wasted a late chance.
Up to 5% of Curaçao's population traveled to the United States for the match, creating a festive atmosphere. Despite being outnumbered by Ecuadorian fans, they brought a brass band and celebrated a famous point.
