Curaçao’s historic World Cup brings the nation to Kansas City
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)
For the first time in the nation's history, Curaçao qualified for the World Cup.
The small island nation of 160,000 people punched its first ticket to the global tournament, and its second group stage match took the country to Kansas City.
"We're very excited to be here, very happy, and we're very lucky to be here to support our little islands there," said Daynisja Ricardo, a Curaçaoan fan who travelled to the game.
Ricardo was one of thousands of Curaçao natives in attendance to support the team in their World Cup debut. Even as the smallest nation in the entire tournament, the team still had plenty of support
"Seeing them play, you know, it's like I cannot describe the feeling. Every time we see them, I get goosebumps. We were dreaming of this chance to be here. So, yes, we're very excited to see them play this," said Ricardo.
"It's been unreal, it's surreal. We're so small and we just got here and now everyone can see us," said Maxwell Brigitha, another Curaçaoan who made the trip.
Despite falling in the opening game to Germany, Curaçao managed to put a goal past one of the best teams in the entire world. That first goal in the team's history at this competition was a symbol of what they could achieve.
"It's the first time, but it won't be the last time. We've been working really hard since we became autonomous, but it's a blessing," said Brigitha.
In game two, Curaçao traveled to Kansas City to play Ecuador, bringing the island natives to Missouri, and gave them a taste of midwest hospitality.
"Everybody is happy to, to see us. They're like, oh, you're playing tomorrow. Good luck," said Ricardo.
"The comradaree has been amazing. Not only with the Curaçaoans. But all everyone who comes in. Even the one's we're playing," said Brigitha.
In the second round of group play, Curaçao drew against Ecuador 0-0, officially securing the nation's first point in the World Cup. Now they turn their attention to the final match in the group stage against Ivory Coast in hopes of stealing a win and advancing to the knockout rounds.
