Smaller than Isle of Man & huge Dutch influence: Curacao making history

Smaller than Isle of Man huge – Curacao, a picturesque Caribbean island renowned for its vibrant culture and rich heritage, is set to etch its name into football history. The nation, which is smaller than the Isle of Man and home to just over 158,000 people—fewer than 40 UK cities and towns—has achieved an unprecedented milestone by securing a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This qualification marks a significant moment, as Curacao becomes the smallest nation in terms of size and population to ever participate in the global tournament. Despite not being a fully independent sovereign state, Curacao has long maintained a strong sense of identity, blending its deep-rooted Dutch heritage with a unique Caribbean spirit.

A Nation on the Rise

Curacao’s journey to the World Cup is a testament to its resilience and passion for football. In their first qualifying group, the team emerged victorious in all four matches, showcasing a blend of talent and determination. Their undefeated run in the second group further solidified their place in the tournament, drawing attention from fans and pundits alike. For the first time in history, the island will host its own World Cup campaign, with the squad set to compete in Houston, Texas. The excitement is palpable, as thousands of Blue Wave supporters are expected to gather to cheer on their team, with some fans traveling by charter flights specifically arranged for the occasion.

“It brings so much joy and pride to the island that you can’t describe it,” said Gilbert Martina, president of the Curacao Football Federation (FFK). “The whole island is turning blue.” Martina’s words reflect the overwhelming pride felt by locals, who have long admired the team’s progress. This achievement is not just a sporting triumph but a cultural milestone, symbolizing the island’s growing recognition on the international stage. However, the path to this moment has been paved by a unique blend of local and international talent, with many players tracing their roots to the Netherlands.

Global Talent, Local Identity

Curacao’s squad is a fascinating mix of homegrown and overseas-born players, with only one member, Tahith Chong, being born on the island. The rest of the 25-player team hail from the mainland Netherlands, highlighting the deep ties between the two regions. This connection is not accidental; it has been cultivated over the years through strategic hiring of Dutch coaches and the integration of Dutch-based talent into the national setup. The shift began in 2015 when the team appointed Patrick Kluivert, a former Dutch international, as their first high-profile manager.

“We’ve done something so nice for Curacao,” said Leandro Bacuna, the team’s captain. “I started this journey 10 years ago and wanted to make the people from Curacao proud.” Bacuna, who has played for clubs like Birmingham and Rangers, is a key figure in the squad, embodying the spirit of unity that defines the team. His brother, Juninho Bacuna, who has represented Huddersfield and Birmingham, echoed this sentiment, recalling childhood dreams of playing together on a single pitch. “That’s why I decided early on to play for Curacao so I could be with him in one team,” he explained. “It’s a dream we’ve always had, and now it’s becoming a reality.”

The team’s reliance on Dutch-based talent has become a defining feature of their success. Over the past few years, a significant number of players have made the transition from playing for the Netherlands at youth levels to representing Curacao. This trend has accelerated since 2023, with 15 of the current squad making their debut as Curacao players. Among them is Tahith Chong, who previously played for the Netherlands at the under-21 level before switching allegiances last year. “We’ve got a lot of players that have been playing in Holland who never thought about playing for Curacao,” noted Juninho Bacuna. “But you can see the heart, the belief, and the connection they have with Curacao. They feel the love from the people and everything from the island, so the bond keeps growing stronger.”

A New Era for the Blue Wave

Curacao’s World Cup campaign also marks a historical first for its manager, Dick Advocaat. At 78 years old, Advocaat will become the oldest coach in World Cup history, a distinction that underscores the team’s unique journey. His leadership has been instrumental in uniting a squad that spans continents, with players from the Netherlands and Curacao working together toward a common goal. “The manager keeps saying we are not finished,” Bacuna added. “We want to show people that as small as we are, we have a big heart. If you have a big heart, I believe you can get far.”

The team’s reliance on the Dutch diaspora has created a distinct dynamic. With the population of the Netherlands approximately matching that of Curacao, the island’s footballers have found a natural home in the Dutch league system. This has allowed for a steady pipeline of talent, many of whom have played for clubs in the Netherlands before joining the national team. For instance, Miami FC goalkeeper Eloy Room was the first member of the squad to represent Curacao in 2015, while Leandro Bacuna and others joined in 2016. The integration of these players has not only strengthened the team but also deepened the connection between Curacao and its diaspora community.

Curacao’s success in qualifying for the World Cup is part of a broader trend among nations that are not fully independent. Along with Aruba and Sint Maarten, the island is one of only six such countries to reach the global tournament. The other nations include England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, which are all part of the United Kingdom. This shared experience highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by smaller, non-sovereign nations in international football. As Curacao prepares for its debut, the focus remains on delivering results and inspiring future generations of players.

Stories Behind the Squad

Behind the scenes of Curacao’s World Cup campaign are stories of dedication, cultural pride, and a shared dream. The team’s formation has been a gradual process, with key moments such as the hiring of Dutch managers like Kluivert and Advocaat playing a pivotal role. These coaches have helped bridge the gap between local and international talent, fostering a sense of belonging among players who may have never considered representing Curacao. For example, Eloy Room, a 37-year-old goalkeeper, has become a symbol of the team’s ability to attract experienced players from the Dutch league.

The shift in approach has also led to a redefinition of what it means to be a Curacaoan. “We’re very used to our diaspora being outside the island,” said Boudino de Jong, co-founder of Profound, the FFK’s digital partners. “So that’s not necessarily a factor in how we identify ourselves.” De Jong’s perspective emphasizes the team’s ability to unite players who may have grown up in the Netherlands but still feel a profound connection to their homeland. This sentiment is echoed by many in the squad, who see themselves as ambassadors for Curacao, carrying the weight of their nation’s aspirations on the global stage.

As Curacao prepares to take on Germany in their opening World Cup match, the team is poised to challenge expectations. Their story is one of resilience, with players from diverse backgrounds coming together to represent a small but passionate nation. The upcoming games against Ecuador and Ivory Coast will test their ability to translate talent into triumph, but the spirit of the island remains unshakable. For Curacao, this is more than just a football tournament—it’s a celebration of identity, heritage, and the power of unity in the face of adversity.

The World Cup debut also offers a platform to showcase the island’s unique charm and culture. While Curacao may be most famously associated with its namesake rum, its football team now stands as a symbol of its growing global presence. As the team steps onto the pitch, the hopes and dreams of an entire nation will be on display, proving that size is no barrier to greatness. With a blend of Dutch expertise and Caribbean passion, Curacao is ready to make history in a way that will be remembered for years to come.