Curaçao earned a historic point at the World Cup after a 0-0 draw with Ecuador in Kansas City, with goalkeeper Room producing 15 saves to deny a relentless Ecuadorian attack. Ecuador dominated possession and fired 28 shots at goal, but could not find a breakthrough against Room, whose performance set a record for the most saves by a goalkeeper in a World Cup match without extra-time since 1966.
The result lifts spirits for Curaçao, the smallest nation by population to ever play at a World Cup, following their 7-1 opening defeat to Germany. Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima were among the crowd at Arrowhead Stadium supporting the Caribbean side, managed by veteran Dutch coach Dick Advocaat.
Twenty-five of Curaçao’s 26-man squad were born in the Netherlands.Ecuador had the better chances throughout, with Enner Valencia denied early on and Gonzalo Plata’s header saved before the hour mark, but they remain without a goal after two matches at the tournament.
Ecuador coach Sebastian Beccacece said his side could not be faulted for effort despite the result. “There are things you cannot explain in football,” he said. “We wanted to win, we didn’t do it… if I see that you are giving it all competing, I have no complaints.
“Germany’s 2-1 win over Ivory Coast in Toronto, coming from behind, secured their place in the round of 32 and ensured they will top the group. Ecuador face Germany next on Thursday, while Curaçao take on Ivory Coast.
