WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao has been drawn into Group E of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Germany, Ecuador and Ivory Coast. The draw took place Friday evening in Washington D.C. and prompted mixed reactions among Curaçao internationals, several of whom shared their first impressions at De Voetbalkantine.
National team captain Eloy Room reacted positively to the outcome, especially to facing Germany. “Germany, nice, right?” Room said. Although he had previously mentioned Brazil as a preferred opponent, he described the group as attractive and challenging. “It’s a good group. We’ll have to get to work—it will be a fight.”
SK Beveren attacker Jearl Margaritha had a more conflicted view. “It’s an ugly group, man. I don’t like it, but at the same time it’s nice,” he said, capturing the mixed emotions surrounding the draw.
Defender Sherel Floranus, who plays for PEC Zwolle, shared Room’s optimism and believes Curaçao can make something special out of the challenge. “It’s a nice group. You can make something good out of it,” Floranus said.
The Curaçao squad is expected to receive its official match schedule on Saturday evening. Possible host cities for the group matches include Houston, Philadelphia, Toronto, Kansas City and East Rutherford.
Midfielder Kevin Felida of FC Den Bosch was unable to follow the draw live due to his club’s match against SC Cambuur, which his team won 2–1. “I was trying to watch, but it took a really long time. In the end, I couldn’t manage to see the draw live,” Felida said.
Despite the formidable opponents, Felida remains relaxed and optimistic. “Anything can happen, the ball is round. You never know,” he said with a laugh when asked about facing Germany. “I think it’s a nice group. Just being at the World Cup is already special for us. For us, it’s about enjoying the moment.”
As Curaçao prepares for its historic World Cup debut, the reactions within the squad reflect a blend of realism, excitement and belief that the island can make a memorable impression on football’s biggest stage.