Curaçao Sets Record as the Least Populous Nation to Qualify for a World Cup
Curaçao has made history by qualifying for the World Cup as the least populous nation ever to do so. With a population of just 156,115, it surpassed Iceland, which previously held the record for the smallest nation to qualify when it reached the 2018 World Cup.
Curaçao’s Historic Qualification
On Tuesday, Curaçao played to a 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston. This result secured their place in the World Cup for the first time. Throughout the qualifying tournament, Curaçao was the only undefeated team in Group B, finishing with 12 points.
Coaching Challenges
Notably, Curaçao accomplished this feat without their coach, Dick Advocaat. The 78-year-old had to return to the Netherlands for family reasons before the crucial match, yet the team managed to shine in his absence.
Jamaica’s Near Miss
Jamaica came close to scoring multiple times. In the 54th minute, Greg Leigh hit the right post with a header. Shamar Nicholson and Bailey Cadamarteri also rattled the posts during the match. A potential penalty for Jamaica in stoppage time was overturned after a video review.
CONCACAF Competitors
Curaçao was not the only team to secure a World Cup spot from CONCACAF. Both Haiti and Panama also qualified. Haiti beat Nicaragua 2-0, while Panama triumphed over El Salvador 3-0, finishing first in Group A with 12 points.
- Curaçao: 12 points (Undefeated in Group B)
- Haiti: 2-0 victory against Nicaragua
- Panama: 3-0 victory against El Salvador
Upcoming Intercontinental Playoffs
The latest results finalize the six teams for the intercontinental playoffs in March 2024. Teams will include Jamaica, Suriname, Iraq, Congo, Bolivia, and New Caledonia. These playoffs will determine additional World Cup berths.
Curaçao’s achievement marks a significant milestone in the world of soccer, showcasing that even the smallest nations can reach great heights on the global stage.
