Curacao, Patrick Kluivert's Former Team, Only Need Draw to Qualify for 2026 World Cup

The race for the 2026 World Cup in the Concacaf zone is intensifying. Curacao, a team once managed by Patrick Kluivert, stands on the brink of history after securing a crucial victory on Friday, November 14, 2025.

Kluivert managed Curacao as both technical director and coach from 2015-2016 and returned in 2023. 

Curacao delivered a ferocious performance in Devonshire with a 7-0 win over Bermuda. This victory, under current captain Dick Advokaat, displaced Jamaica from the top of Group B standings. 

The result favors Curacao as they only require a draw against Jamaica on November 19 to secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Leandro Bacuna opened the scoring via penalty, followed by goals from Juninho Bacuna, Jordi Paulina (brace), Sonja Hansen, Ar’Jany Martha, and Roshon van Eijma. 

This sharp display highlights the rapid progress of a team refined through structural foundations partly built during Kluivert's era.

Meanwhile Jamaica stumbled after a 1-1 draw against Trinidad and Tobago. Renaldo Cephas's goal initially sparked hope, but Kevin Molino forced the "Reggae Boyz" to swallow disappointment in the 85th minute. 

With 10 points, Jamaica must now defeat Curacao to claim the automatic qualification spot.

Suriname Still on Historic Path

In Group A, Suriname kept their first-ever World Cup dream alive after thrashing El Salvador 4-0 in Paramaribo.

Tjaronn Chery scored the opener via penalty before Richonell Margaret netted two quick goals. Dhoraso Klas sealed the match with an 83rd-minute strike, just two minutes after entering the field. 

Suriname leads the group with 2 wins and 3 draws. They only need a positive result against Guatemala to secure their ticket.

In another match, Guatemala maintained their chances with a 1-0 win over Panama through Oscar Santis's goal, plus goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen's outstanding performance. 

Should both Curacao and Suriname qualify, it could become one of the biggest storylines in this Concacaf qualifying campaign—two small nations that grew, evolved, and now stand ready to storm world football's grandest stage.