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Curaçao Qualifies for 2026 World Cup, Smallest Nation Ever to Reach Tournament

A 0-0 draw in Kingston sealed top spot in Group B, sending Jamaica to the inter‑confederation playoff.

Overview

  • The result delivered Curaçao’s first World Cup berth and set a population record as the smallest nation to qualify, roughly 156,000 people.
  • Jamaica finished second on 11 points and moves to the inter‑confederation playoff in pursuit of a return to the tournament.
  • Veteran coach Dick Advocaat missed the match for family reasons yet remained in contact with his staff from the Netherlands.
  • Curaçao’s unbeaten group campaign included a 7-0 rout of Bermuda and consistent contributions across a roster built largely on Dutch‑linked dual nationals.
  • Panama and Haiti also clinched direct CONCACAF spots on the final matchday, with Panama topping Group A and Haiti winning Group C.