The World Cup's biggest underdogs train on a beach, and their story will give you goosebumps

The World Cup has seen many unforgettable football stories, but Curaçao’s journey stands apart. A tiny Caribbean island nation with a population of around 158,000 is preparing to make history as the smallest country ever to compete in the tournament.

Their road to the biggest stage in football has been anything but ordinary. From training barefoot on beaches to travelling in a windowless school bus, Curaçao’s story is built on passion, belief, and a connection between players and fans that feels unlike anything else, as per a report by the Daily Mail.

How did Curaçao become a World Cup sensation?

For Curaçao, reaching the World Cup is already a victory. The island nation, known for its vibrant culture and nightlife, is preparing for its first appearance on football’s biggest stage.


The team has stayed close to its roots throughout the journey. Players have trained barefoot on the beaches of their island home, surrounded by the sea, sunbeds, and small wooden beach shacks.

Their sessions look very different from traditional World Cup preparations. The squad has played volleyball-style games, done exercises on the sand, and enjoyed the turquoise waters while preparing for the biggest challenge of their football lives.



The scenes have captured attention around the world because of how different the journey looks compared with football’s traditional powerhouses.

The team even went viral after travelling in a simple school bus without windows, with players leaning out and celebrating together on the road, as per a report by the Daily Mail.

Why is Curaçao’s qualification so special?

Curaçao’s achievement is remarkable because of the size of the country and its football history. The island did not even have its own national team until 2010, when it was part of the now-disbanded Netherlands Antilles setup.

Their qualification came after an unbeaten campaign across 10 matches, where they defeated strong regional opponents, including Haiti, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Their biggest moment came in November when they drew with Jamaica to secure their place in the expanded 48-team World Cup.

The result was especially significant because Jamaica was managed by former England boss Steve McClaren. Curaçao travelled away from home and faced a stadium mostly supporting Jamaica, but their passionate blue-clad supporters helped create an unforgettable atmosphere, as per a report by the Daily Mail.

Captain Leandro Bacuna described the moment with emotion. “I think God was with us that night,” said Bacuna.

“Because you’ve seen the game, everyone’s seen the game. Couple of balls on the post … Everywhere. But our keeper was great, so I think it was meant for us. It was a story written for us."

Who are the players behind the dream?

The Curaçao squad is largely made up of Dutch-born players with connections to the island through their parents.

Only Tahith Chong was born in Curaçao, while the rest of the team represents the Caribbean nation through family ties.

The squad may not have the biggest stars, but their strength comes from unity. The most recognisable name is Leandro Bacuna, who previously played for Aston Villa.

Before the tournament, players have continued interacting with supporters by taking photos, attending meet-and-greets, and signing shirts and footballs.

For many fans, the players feel like members of the community rather than distant sporting figures.

One supporter, Brenton Balentien, told The Athletic: “The island will shut down when the games are on.”

“For us, it’s life. We are a tiny island; everyone here is like family, accomplishing something as big as qualifying for the World Cup means the world. Besides seeing the birth of my children, this is the best thing that has ever happened to me."

Can Curaçao shock the World Cup?

The challenge ahead is huge. Curaçao will face Germany, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador in a difficult group. However, the team believes they can compete. The man leading the historic campaign is Dick Advocaat, the 78-year-old Dutch coach who will become the oldest manager in World Cup history.

Advocaat briefly stepped away in February to be with his sick daughter but returned to the role in May 2026.

Despite being ranked 82nd by FIFA, Curaçao believes they can surprise bigger nations. A decade ago, they were ranked around 150th, making their rise even more remarkable, as per a report by the Daily Mail.

Right-back Livano Comenencia told FIFA: “We’ve been brought up playing the Dutch way, and we’ve got real quality and excellent technique. We’re going to surprise a lot of people.”

“As soon as the game gets under way, anything can happen. It’s always 11 against 11, not five against 11. Anything’s possible, even against Germany. I think four points will be enough to see us through to the next stage of the competition, a win and a draw. We’ll do everything in our power to make it happen."

Curaçao may be the smallest country at the World Cup, but their confidence is anything but small. As one player said, “We’re going to the World Cup with the intention of winning it.”

FAQs

Where is Curaçao from?
A Caribbean island near Venezuela.

Who manages Curaçao?
Dick Advocaat.