Watch: Curacao’s first FIFA World Cup point leaves Dutch royals and players celebrating together | Football News
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands enjoyed a memorable day at the FIFA World Cup as they cheered not one but two teams under the Dutch kingdom. After watching the Netherlands beat Sweden in Houston, the royal couple flew to Kansas City to support Curacao, which created history by earning its first-ever World Cup point with a goalless draw against Ecuador.Curacao, one of the smallest nations ever to play at the World Cup, had suffered a heavy 7-1 defeat to Germany in its debut match. But thanks largely to goalkeeper Eloy Room’s remarkable 15 saves, the island nation bounced back to secure a historic result and stay alive in the tournament.“It is an extra-special World Cup because we have both the Netherlands and Curacao,” Willem-Alexander told RTL-TV. “So we have twice as many teams to cheer for. A great opportunity to cheer on both the Blues and the Oranges. All in all, it will be a special World Cup for me with two teams, and I naturally hope they go extremely far.”Earlier in the day, the Netherlands boosted their hopes of reaching the knockout stage with a convincing 5-1 win over Sweden, with Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo scoring twice each.Meanwhile, Curacao celebrated a moment to remember. Midfielder Tahith Chong said having the royal family present made the achievement even more special.Watch:“It’s amazing,” Curacao midfielder Tahith Chong said of celebrating with the royal family in the locker room. “I knew before the game that they were coming to the game. To have them at such a game that we pick up our first point ever in history is amazing.”
Royal family’s support wins hearts
Curacao coach Dick Advocaat, who was born in the Netherlands, was touched by the way the royal family embraced the team.“Seeing how the king, his wife and daughter fit in our group is something that evokes a lot of respect,” said 78-year-old Curacao coach Dick Advocaat. “They smile, they dance, nothing is too much for them, and you can see them radiating with joy. It was wonderful to see the royal family in this way.”
