Curacao goalkeeper: I need a statue after country’s first World Cup point

Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room has joked that his country should erect a statue in his honour after his heroics helped the Caribbean nation secure a historic first-ever FIFA World Cup point. The 37-year-old, who plays in the United States, produced a remarkable performance as Curacao held Ecuador to a goalless draw in their Group E […]

Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room has joked that his country should erect a statue in his honour after his heroics helped the Caribbean nation secure a historic first-ever FIFA World Cup point.

The 37-year-old, who plays in the United States, produced a remarkable performance as Curacao held Ecuador to a goalless draw in their Group E encounter on Saturday night.

Ecuador entered the match as overwhelming favourites, but Room delivered a goalkeeping masterclass, making 15 saves to frustrate the South Americans and earn Curacao a result that felt like a victory.

The feat equalled the World Cup record for the most saves in a match, jointly held by former United States goalkeeper Tim Howard.

Reflecting on his performance, Room expressed pride in matching the long-standing record and helping his country achieve a historic milestone.

“I knew it was a lot of saves. I know it was a record from a long time ago, so I am really proud. It was a really good feeling. My first save gave me confidence and I knew it was going to be a busy game,” he said.

“I am a little bit bummed because we had chances to score. For us, this feels like a victory.

“I think in 40 years I will remember this. It will be insane. I think I need a statue in Curacao now.”

Curacao, a nation of just over 150,000 people, defied the odds by navigating three qualifying rounds to reach the World Cup for the first time in its history.

Room described the experience of competing on football’s biggest stage in the United States, Mexico and Canada as surreal.

“It is unreal, the journey where we came from and where we are now. We showed that we have real heart. It is an unbelievable feeling,” he said.

The side, coached by veteran Dutch manager and former Netherlands boss Dick Advocaat, remains in contention for a place in the knockout stage. Curacao can secure a shock passage to the Round of 32 with victory over Ivory Coast in their final group match.