Irony! Curacao Nearly Made World Cup, Indonesian National Team Exits in Kluivert Era

Amid public scrutiny in Indonesian football toward Patrick Kluivert following the Indonesian National Team's failure to reach the 2026 World Cup, an intriguing irony emerges from another part of the world. Curaçao, the small Caribbean nation once coached by Kluivert, still maintains hope of appearing in the 2026 World Cup.

Curaçao: Small Nation, Big Ambition

Playing at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad, Curaçao held Trinidad and Tobago to a 1–1 draw. This result extended their unbeaten streak and kept their hopes alive for the 2026 World Cup.

"I have players who always give their best. We will fight until the last match. We will keep that hope alive until the final second," said Coach Dick Advocaat.

Curaçao even took the lead through a beautiful goal by Kenji Gorre in the 19th minute. Tyrese Spicer equalized in the 58th minute, but the single point remains crucial in the tight race of Concacaf Zone Group B.

Previously, Curaçao caused a major upset by defeating Jamaica at home. Jamaica now leads the group after a 4-0 win over Bermuda with 9 points, making the final group stage match a life-or-death battle.

Curaçao will face Bermuda on November 13th. If they win, and Jamaica draws or loses against Trinidad and Tobago, Curaçao will become group champions and qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup. 

If not, they still have a chance through the final qualification round.

What Changed? Not the Players, But the Coach

Interestingly, the Curaçao squad hasn't changed much since the Patrick Kluivert era. Kluivert coached Curaçao twice (2015–2016 and 2021), but the results were far from impressive. Out of 14 matches, he recorded only 4 wins, 4 draws, and 6 losses. 

However, since early 2024, Dick Advocaat has taken over. The experienced Dutch coach immediately brought a new dimension. 

He blended diaspora players like Tahith Chong (ex-Manchester United academy) and veteran goalkeeper Eloy Room into a solid and disciplined team.

The results are striking, with a 62% win ratio over 16 matches. Curaçao not only plays aggressively but also displays tactical maturity.

Kluivert at Curaçao vs Kluivert in Indonesia

Patrick Kluivert faced two unfavorable situations. In Curaçao, he failed to bring significant progress. In Indonesia, he faced heavy criticism after the National Team was eliminated from the fourth round of 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers. Public support waned, and protest-themed hashtags even emerged.

Ironically, the small team he once coached is now closer to the World Cup than the national team he currently trains.

Lesson from Curaçao

Curaçao's success isn't solely about the players. They didn't suddenly gain new talent. The key lies in the right coach and solid planning.

Advocaat brought optimism, not just promises. To this second, that promise looks real on the field. Meanwhile, Indonesia under Kluivert has lost its playing identity and consistency.(Antara)