Curaçao has made history by becoming the smallest nation by population to ever qualify for the World Cup, following a 0-0 draw with Jamaica on Tuesday. The Caribbean nation achieved this feat by finishing undefeated in the qualifying tournament, topping Group B with 12 points. Despite head coach Dick Advocaat’s absence due to family reasons in the Netherlands, the team secured their place in the competition.
Curaçao’s population of 156,115 makes it the smallest nation to qualify, surpassing Iceland’s previous record of 352,000 residents. The team’s historic qualification marks a significant milestone in international football, showcasing the nation’s talent and determination. Cape Verde, which also qualified for the World Cup for the first time, has the third-smallest population among competing nations.
Advocaat, who had previously coached the team, missed the match due to personal reasons, highlighting the team’s resilience in securing their qualification without his guidance. The achievement underscores the growing presence of smaller nations in global football competitions, a trend that could continue as more countries invest in their national teams.
This milestone not only celebrates Curaçao’s success but also highlights the importance of grassroots football development and the potential for nations with smaller populations to compete on the world stage. As the team prepares for the World Cup, their journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring players in the region.
With the 2026 World Cup set to take place in the United States, the qualification of smaller nations like Curaçao signals a shift toward greater inclusivity in international football. The team’s achievements will be closely watched as they aim to make an impact on the global stage.