Bacuna's Free Kicks, Bazoer's Promise, and Locadia's Goals: Curacao's World Cup Arsenal

Curacao enters the World Cup as a debutant, but with a squad boasting significant European football experience, aiming to be more than just participants. The team is led by coach Dick Advocaat and features several well-known names from European leagues.

Leandro Bacuna, the team's captain, brings extensive experience from his time in the Premier League with Aston Villa and other English clubs. He is known for his skill in set pieces and as a direct free-kick taker. He scored Curacao's first goal in the Gold Cup.

In defense, Riechedly Bazoer will be a key figure. Once a promising talent at Ajax and having played for the Dutch national team, Bazoer now plays as a center-back for Konyaspor in Turkey, valued for his technical ability. He was first called up by Curacao in 2025.

Jurgen Locadia, currently with Miami FC in the USL, is tasked with scoring goals. He made a name for himself at PSV, scoring over 15 goals in a season, and also played in the Premier League for Brighton. His experience also includes stints in MLS and leagues in Germany and Iran. Alongside him is his younger brother, Juninho Bacuna, who has contributed nine goals and seven assists in 32 appearances for Curacao. Tahith Chong, who has played for Manchester United's youth academy and had spells with Werder Bremen and Birmingham City, also adds international experience and pace to the team as they prepare to face Germany.