Curacao becomes smallest nation to qualify for a World Cup

• The tiny Caribbean nation of Curacao became the smallest country to qualify for the World Cup when they drew with Jamaica in Kingston on November 18.

• According to the Central Bureau of Statistics in Curacao, the country has a population of 156,115 persons as of January 2025. 

• Iceland, with a population of just over 350,000 was the smallest country to reach the World Cup when it qualified for the tournament in Russia in 2018. 

• Panama and Haiti also booked their spots at the finals.

• Haiti’s only previous trip to the World Cup was in 1974 in West Germany.

• The three clinched top spots in their respective groups to advance from the central and North American and Caribbean (CONCACAF) region to next year’s finals in Canada, Mexico and the US.

• Under the guidance of experienced head coach Dick Advocaat, Curacao completed a sparkling qualifying campaign in which they went unbeaten in 10 matches. 

• They roared to victories over Barbados, Aruba, Saint Lucia and Haiti in the second round, scoring a whopping 15 goals along the way.

Key points on Curacao:

• Curacao is a small Caribbean island located off the northern coast of Venezuela, approximately 65 kilometers north of the Paraguana Peninsula. 

• Curacao, also part of the Dutch Caribbean, is known for its colourful colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and diverse cultural heritage.

• The capital city, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its pastel-colored buildings lining the waterfront. 

• The island’s unique blend of Dutch, Caribbean, and Afro-Caribbean influences is reflected in its cuisine, music, and festivals. 

• Beyond its cultural attractions, Curacao offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities in its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and underwater caves.

• Curacao has a total area of 444 km². The island is relatively flat with some hills, the highest being Christoffelberg at 372 meters (1,224 feet) above sea level.

• The island was granted a separate status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 2010, allowing for autonomy in internal affairs, while remaining part of the Kingdom.

• The official currency is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG).