Curacao name historic World Cup squad with Ex-Man Utd winger Tahith Chong at the forefront

Ex-Man Utd winger Tahith Chong has been named in Curaçao’s first-ever FIFA World Cup squad as the Caribbean nation prepares for a historic 2026 debut in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The announcement, made by the Curaçao Football Federation on Monday, marks a landmark moment for the island as it becomes the smallest country ever to reach the global tournament.

With a population of about 156,000 and a land area of just 171 square miles, the achievement has drawn widespread attention across CONCACAF.

Curaçao secured its place at the tournament after finishing top of its CONCACAF qualifying group, sealing qualification with a goalless draw against Jamaica.

The result capped a disciplined campaign that saw the team outlast stronger regional rivals.

Experienced Dutch coach Dick Advocaat, who previously led the Netherlands at the 1994 World Cup in the United States and South Korea at Germany 2006, returned to steer the side after briefly stepping down in February.

At 78, he is set to become the oldest manager in World Cup history, adding another layer to an already remarkable story.

Curaçao’s final 26-man squad blends experience and emerging talent, with a strong Dutch-born contingent reflecting the island’s deep footballing ties to the Netherlands.

Curacao World Squad in Full

Goalkeepers: Tyrick Bodak (SC Telstar), Trevor Doornbusch (VVV-Venlo), Eloy Room (Miami FC)

Defenders: Riechedly Bazoer (Konyaspor), Joshua Brenet (Kayserispor), Roshon Van Eijma (RKC Waalwijk), Sherel Floranus (PEC Zwolle), Deveron Fonville (NEC Nijmegen), Juriën Gaari (Abha Club), Armando Obispo (PSV Eindhoven), Shurandy Sambo (Sparta Rotterdam)

Midfielders: Juninho Bacuna (FC Volendam), Leandro Bacuna (Iğdır), Livano Comenencia (FC Zürich), Kevin Felida (FC Den Bosch), Ar’Jany Martha (Rotherham United), Tyrese Noslin (SC Telstar), Godfried Roemeratoe (RKC Waalwijk)

Forwards: Jeremy Antonisse (AE Kifisia), Tahith Chong (Sheffield United), Kenji Gorré (Maccabi Haifa), Sontje Hansen (Middlesbrough), Gervane Kastaneer (Terengganu FC), Brandley Kuwas (FC Volendam), Jürgen Locadia (Miami FC), Jearl Margaritha (SK Beveren)