Curacao has become the smallest nation in history to reach the FIFA World Cup, securing qualification for the 2026 tournament after a tense 0–0 draw with Jamaica in Kingston. With a population of just 156,000, the Caribbean island finished top of Group B with 12 points from six matches, edging Jamaica by a single point.
The historic feat capped a dramatic finale to the CONCACAF qualifying series. Jamaica launched relentless pressure in the second half, striking the woodwork three times before being awarded a stoppage-time penalty. However, the decision was overturned after a VAR review, allowing Curacao to hold on for the crucial point that sealed their first-ever World Cup berth. Veteran coach Dick Advocaat, who missed the match due to a family emergency, now becomes the architect of one of football’s most unlikely qualification stories.
Haiti also secured a World Cup return for the first time since 1974, defeating Nicaragua 2–0 in a match played in Curacao due to unrest at home. Goals from Louicius Don Deedson and Ruben Providence lifted Haiti to the top of Group C with 11 points, edging Honduras, who drew 0–0 with Costa Rica and narrowly missed the intercontinental playoff on goal difference.
Panama claimed the remaining automatic qualification ticket on Tuesday with a convincing 3–0 win over El Salvador, ending Suriname’s hopes despite Suriname later squeezing into the playoff spots following a 3–1 defeat to Guatemala.
Curacao now holds the distinction of being the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup, surpassing Iceland’s record from 2018. The expanded 48-team format for the 2026 tournament opened the door to this milestone, but it was Curacao’s resilience under pressure in Kingston that ultimately sealed their place on football’s biggest stage.
