Eloy Room and the Secret of Veteran World Cup Goalkeepers: 'We Are Like Fine Wine'

Curaçao's veteran goalkeeper Eloy Room delivered a historic performance against Ecuador in the World Cup, making a remarkable 15 saves – the most by any goalkeeper in a World Cup match without extra time. At 37 years old, Room believes his extensive experience is key to his continued success.

"It's difficult to stay ready and in shape as you get older. We have to train hard, but experience is really useful; you see it with the rest of the goalkeepers in this tournament. I think goalkeepers are like fine wine, as they say," Room joked with the media. He drew parallels with other experienced keepers in the tournament, such as Cape Verde's 'Vozinha,' who was named man of the match at 40.

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It's difficult to stay ready and in shape as you get older. We have to train hard, but experience is really useful; you see it with the rest of the goalkeepers in this tournament. I think goalkeepers are like fine wine, as they say.

Room's heroics earned Curaçao their first point in World Cup history and garnered him widespread admiration, including from Ecuadorian fans. "The Ecuadorian fans approached me after the game to ask for photos and things like that. Although many were probably very angry with me for stopping the balls, they maintained a very sporting attitude; they wanted to take photos and congratulate me," he expressed. His Instagram following surged by half a million after the match.

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The Ecuadorian fans approached me after the game to ask for photos and things like that. Although many were probably very angry with me for stopping the balls, they maintained a very sporting attitude; they wanted to take photos and congratulate me.

Currently playing for Miami FC in the USL Championship, Room has a notable past, including stints at PSV Eindhoven and winning an MLS Cup with Columbus Crew. Despite the newfound attention, he remains grounded: "I like the praise from people, but in the end, it's my job." He has asked his agent to hold off on discussing potential new offers until after the World Cup.

This standout performance was a significant boost for Curaçao, especially after a heavy 7-1 defeat to Germany in their debut. The draw against Ecuador, however, keeps their mathematical chances of advancing to the next stage alive. Their next match is against Ivory Coast, a game they must win to progress.

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I like the praise from people, but in the end, it's my job.