By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
Curaçao have officially unveiled the squad that will represent the nation at their first-ever FIFA World Cup, marking a historic milestone for Caribbean football and triggering celebrations across the island nation ahead of this summer’s tournament.
Nicknamed “The Blue Wave,” Curaçao’s squad combines experienced internationals, Eredivisie talent and several players competing across Europe as the nation prepares for its long-awaited debut on football’s biggest stage.
Former Netherlands international and current head coach Dick Advocaat has selected a balanced group built around defensive organization, technical midfielders and pace in attack as Curaçao attempt to make history at the tournament.
Among the most recognizable names in the squad are former PSV Eindhoven and Rangers midfielder Juninho Bacuna, experienced defender Riechedly Bazoer, ex-Manchester United winger Tahith Chong and striker Jürgen Locadia.
Veteran goalkeeper Eloy Room is expected to play a major leadership role after years as one of the team’s most reliable performers, while Leandro Bacuna brings vital experience and versatility to the midfield.
Curaçao’s final squad:
Goalkeepers
- Tyrick Bodak
Trevor Doornbusch
Eloy Room
Defenders
- Riechedly Bazoer
Joshua Brenet
Roshon van Eijma
Sherel Floranus
Deveron Fonville
Juriën Gaari
Armando Obispo
Shurandy Sambo
Midfielders
- Juninho Bacuna
Leandro Bacuna
Livano Comenencia
Kevin Felida
Ar’Jany Martha
Tyrese Noslin
Godfried Roemeratoe
Forwards
- Jeremy Antonisse
Tahith Chong
Kenji Gorré
Sontje Hansen
Gervane Kastaneer
Brandley Kuwas
Jürgen Locadia
Jearl Margaritha
Curaçao’s qualification for the World Cup represents one of the greatest achievements in the nation’s football history.
The island nation, with a population of just over 150,000 people, successfully navigated the CONCACAF qualification process to secure a place among the world’s elite for the first time ever, becoming one of the tournament’s most inspiring underdog stories.
Much of the squad is built around players developed in the Netherlands football system, reflecting Curaçao’s deep historical and cultural connections with Dutch football.
Several members of the squad have experience in top European leagues, including the Eredivisie, Championship and Bundesliga, giving the team valuable experience ahead of the competition.
Curaçao’s rise in international football has accelerated dramatically over the past decade following heavy investment in player recruitment, youth development and diaspora scouting.
The appointment of experienced Dutch coaches and the growing number of dual-nationality players choosing to represent Curaçao have transformed the national team into an increasingly competitive force within CONCACAF.
Supporters across the Caribbean are now eagerly anticipating the nation’s first World Cup appearance, with many already describing the squad as a symbol of national pride and sporting progress.
For “The Blue Wave,” however, the mission extends beyond simply participating.
Curaçao now head to the World Cup determined to prove they can compete with the very best — and perhaps deliver one of the tournament’s biggest surprises.