Curacao's 'Dutch DNA' Squad Heads to World Cup 2026

The island nation of Curacao, with a population of just over 185,500, is making an unprecedented appearance at the 2026 World Cup, largely due to a unique squad strategy. The team's roster for the tournament features 25 players born in the Netherlands and only one player, Tahith Chong, born on Curacao itself.

This distinctive player pool is a direct result of Curacao's historical relationship with the Netherlands. As an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Curacaoan citizens are eligible for Dutch citizenship. This has enabled many families of Curacaoan descent to settle in the Netherlands, where their children have been integrated into top-tier European football academies.

This strategic approach has significantly elevated the quality of Curacao's national team, allowing it to compete effectively despite the island's small population. The team's qualification for the World Cup was not marked by flashy wins but by consistent performance, resilience, and the ability to maintain focus during crucial matches.

Former Netherlands national team coach Dick Advocaat laid the groundwork for this success. The 78-year-old tactician instilled a disciplined and pragmatic playing style, equipping the team with the mental fortitude required for decisive games. Advocaat's experience has been instrumental in shaping Curacao into a competitive force within the CONCACAF region.

Among the notable players on the squad are Eloy Room, Riechedly Bazoer, Joshua Brenet, Juninho Bacuna, and Jurgen Locadia, many of whom have developed their skills in renowned Dutch academies and played in the Eredivisie or other major European leagues. Tahith Chong, the sole player born in Curacao, is a product of Manchester United's youth system and previously represented the Netherlands at youth levels before choosing to play for his family's homeland.