Underdogs Curaçao Make History, Qualify for FIFA World Cup with Thrilling Draw Against Jamaica
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Curaçao, a tiny Caribbean island with a population of just 158,000, has etched its name into football history by becoming the smallest nation to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. The Blue Wave secured their place at the 2026 tournament with a nail-biting 0–0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston, marking a historic achievement that surpasses Iceland's 2018 record. To put this achievement into perspective, Curaçao's population is roughly one-tenth that of Noida, a city in India's National Capital Region projected to reach one million people this year. Curaçao's qualification was the result of an unbeaten campaign that saw them finish atop Group B with 12 points. Led by veteran Dutch coach Dick Advocaat, the team impressed throughout qualifying, including a 7–0 victory over Bermuda, the largest win by any team in the round. The decisive match against Jamaica was filled with high drama, with the hosts striking the woodwork three times in the second half and coming close to breaking Curaçao's hearts. However, the Blue Wave held on for the draw, sparking emotional celebrations on the bench. Curaçao will learn their group-stage opponents on December 5, when FIFA conducts the World Cup draw at the Kennedy Centre in Washington, D.C. The team's achievement is a testament to their determination and skill, and they will look to make the most of their historic opportunity at the 2026 World Cup. Elsewhere in CONCACAF qualifying, Panama secured their second World Cup appearance, while Suriname and Haiti also secured their places in the inter-continental playoffs and the World Cup, respectively.
