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Curaçao football has emerged as one of the most exciting stories in Caribbean and CONCACAF football. This small Dutch Caribbean island, with a population of just 160,000, has defied the odds to become a competitive force in international football, currently sitting at 84th in the FIFA World Ranking and making serious strides toward their first-ever World Cup appearance.
The National Team: A New Era Under Dick Advocaat
Current Status and FIFA Ranking
The Curaçao national football team currently ranks 84th globally in the FIFA World Ranking (September 2025), representing a 2-position climb. Within the CONCACAF region, they hold the 12th position, an impressive achievement for such a small nation. Under the guidance of legendary Dutch coach Dick Advocaat, the team has shown remarkable consistency and tactical discipline.
Recent results have been outstanding, with Curaçao securing a crucial 2-0 victory over Jamaica in World Cup qualifying, moving them to first place in Group B with 7 points. This victory brings them tantalizingly close to their first World Cup appearance in 2026.
Dick Advocaat: The Mastermind Behind Success
The appointment of Dick Advocaat as head coach in January 2024 marked a turning point for Curaçao football. The 77-year-old Dutch tactician, who previously managed top clubs like PSV, Barcelona, and the Netherlands national team, has brought world-class experience to the Caribbean nation.
Under Advocaat’s leadership, Curaçao has:
- Won all 5 home matches at Ergilio Hato Stadium
- Remained undefeated in their World Cup qualifying campaign
- Secured qualification for the 2025 Gold Cup
- Improved their FIFA ranking consistently
Key Players and Squad Analysis
Star Players Leading the Charge
Captain Leandro Bacuna (FC Groningen) leads a talented squad that combines experience with youthful energy. The team features players competing in top European leagues:
Goalkeepers:
- Eloy Room (Columbus Crew) – The undisputed #1 goalkeeper
- Trevor Doornbusch (VVV-Venlo)
- Tyrique Bodak (Telstar)
Defenders:
- Joshua Brenet (Al-Rayyan SC) – Experienced right-back
- Shurandy Sambo (Sparta Rotterdam)
- Riechedly Bazoer (Konyaspor)
Midfielders:
- Godfried Roemeratoe (FC Twente) – Defensive anchor
- Juninho Bacuna (Birmingham City)
- Kevin Felida – Rising star
Forwards:
- Kenji Gorré – Veteran winger
- Gervane Kastaneer (Coventry City)
- Jeremy Antonisse – Promising striker
Domestic Football: The Promé Divishon
Curaçao’s Top Football League
The Promé Divishon (First Division) serves as Curaçao’s premier football competition. The league features clubs like:
- SV Victory Boys
- CRKSV Jong Holland
- Inter Willemstad FC
- Atlétiko Saliña
- RKSV Centro Dominguito
The domestic league has been crucial in developing local talent, with many players eventually representing the national team. The competition runs from August to May, providing year-round football action for local fans.
Road to the 2026 World Cup
CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying Campaign
Curaçao’s World Cup qualifying journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Currently leading Group B with 7 points, they’re in pole position to secure their first-ever World Cup berth. Key upcoming fixtures will determine their fate:
Remaining Fixtures:
- vs Trinidad and Tobago (Away)
- vs Guatemala (Home)
- vs Nicaragua (Away)
The team needs just 3 more wins to guarantee their historic World Cup qualification, a dream that seemed impossible just a few years ago.
2025 Gold Cup Qualification
Curaçao has already secured their spot in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup after finishing first in their Nations League group. This represents their fourth consecutive Gold Cup appearance, with their best result being the quarter-finals in 2019.
Football Infrastructure and Development
Ergilio Hato Stadium: The Fortress
The Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad serves as Curaçao’s football headquarters. With a capacity of 15,000, it has become a fortress under Dick Advocaat, with the team maintaining a perfect home record since his appointment.
Youth Development Programs
The Federashon Futbòl Kòrsou (FFK) has invested heavily in youth development, establishing partnerships with Dutch clubs and creating pathways for young talents to develop in European football systems.
Historical Achievements and Milestones
Major Tournament Appearances
- Gold Cup Appearances: 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023, 2025 (qualified)
- Best Gold Cup Result: Quarter-finals (2019)
- Nations League: Consistent top-tier performers
- Highest FIFA Ranking: 68th (July 2017)
Notable Victories
Recent standout results include:
- 2-0 vs Jamaica (October 2025) – World Cup qualifying
- Multiple victories in Nations League competition
- Consistent performances against CONCACAF rivals
The Future of Curaçao Football
World Cup 2026 Dreams
With the 2026 World Cup expanding to 48 teams and CONCACAF receiving additional slots, Curaçao’s chances have never been better. The team’s current form suggests they could achieve the impossible and qualify for their first World Cup.
Talent Pipeline
The island continues to produce talented players who compete in top European leagues, ensuring a bright future for the national team. The dual-nationality advantage allows Curaçao to attract players with Dutch heritage, significantly strengthening their talent pool.
Supporting Curaçao Football
How to Follow the Team
Fans can stay updated with Curaçao football through:
- Official CONCACAF broadcasts
- Social media channels
- Local Caribbean sports networks
- International football streaming platforms
Match Attendance
Home matches at Ergilio Hato Stadium offer an electric atmosphere, with passionate local support creating one of the most intimidating venues in Caribbean football.
Conclusion: A Caribbean Football Revolution
Curaçao football represents the perfect example of how determination, proper coaching, and strategic planning can elevate a small nation to compete with football giants. Under Dick Advocaat’s guidance, with a talented squad and unwavering support from their passionate fanbase, Curaçao stands on the brink of football history.
The journey to the 2026 World Cup continues, and every match brings them closer to achieving what once seemed impossible. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to Caribbean football, Curaçao’s story is one that captures the beautiful game’s ability to unite and inspire nations, regardless of size.
As the World Cup qualifying campaign intensifies, all eyes will be on this small Caribbean island that dares to dream big. The question isn’t whether Curaçao can compete – they’ve already proven that. The question now is: can they make history?
