Why We're All Cheering for Curaçao, Darling of the World Cup

What happens when a relatively overlooked Caribbean island—more recognized for its catamaran tours and snorkeling than for its goal-scoring prowess—qualifies for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in history? And then goes on to score their first-ever goal (against Germany), and tally the team's first-ever tournament point (a 0-0 draw against Ecuador, kudos to goalkeeper Eloy Room’s record-breaking 15 saves)? “There is a real sense of pride across Curaçao right now,” says Gilbert Martina, president of the Curaçao Football Federation. “You can feel that energy across the island. Families are gathering to watch the matches, conversations are happening in cafés and restaurants, and there is a feeling that the world is paying attention to Curaçao in a new way.” Indeed, as Curaçao prepares to face the Ivory Coast in Philadelphia later today, all eyes are on the small Caribbean nation. With just 158,00 residents, the island off the coast of South America is best known for its pastel colonial architecture, extensive coral reefs, and stretches of golden sands. Now, their international reputation has grown to include the title of World Cup darling. Curaçao is the smal