'They fought like lions': Advocaat proud after Curacao earn first World Cup point

In a moment of national pride for the small Caribbean island of Curacao, the national football team secured its first-ever World Cup point with a determined 0-0 draw against Ecuador. The historic result, achieved in Kansas City, Missouri, sent waves of celebration across the island of 156,000 people.

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The people on Curacao have given us their support from the of outset. Particularly last week, after the 7-1, people were still celebrating on the island and people were full of joy.

The draw was largely thanks to the heroic performance of goalkeeper Eloy Room, who made an astonishing 15 saves. Room, who plays in the second tier of North American football, proved an insurmountable obstacle for the Ecuadorian attackers, denying them repeatedly throughout the match.

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It was a mad house tonight. So I think that for people whose life is not always that easy, I really wish them to celebrate this success.

Coach Dick Advocaat, a veteran of international football, expressed immense pride in his team's effort. He highlighted their "lion-like" fighting spirit, which contrasted sharply with their opening 7-1 defeat against Germany. Advocaat noted the unwavering support from the people of Curacao, even after the heavy loss, and dedicated this success to them.

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The team was standing as it should have been standing. They were fighting like lions and then you see what you can achieve against a team that's playing on a very high level with very high individual levels of the players.

Advocaat also reflected on the emotional impact of the team's performance. While he was teary-eyed during the Germany game, he remained calm during the Ecuador match, attributing it to the team's solid performance. He emphasized that the team's resilience and fight, especially after the initial setback, demonstrated their true level and gave hope for their final group game against Ivory Coast.

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What I would say to the people? Keep supporting us, keep helping us. It gives us wings. We fight for the country.