Tuesday night, November 18, marked an epic moment for Caribbean soccer: the Curaçao national team qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 0-0 draw against Jamaica at the National Stadium in Kingston.
With this result, Curaçao secured first place in Group B of the CONCACAF zone, which gives it a direct ticket to the tournament to be played in the USA, Canada and Mexico. This achievement takes on historic dimensions: with a population of just 156,000, Curaçao has become the smallest country in history to qualify for a World Cup.
Signs a historic tie
The match was a battle of nerves.
Jamaica looked for the win to advance directly, but the closest they came was a header by Greg Leigh in the 54th minute that bounced off the post.
For their part, Curaçao responded dangerously in the 66th minute, when Jürgen Locadia shot inside the box and goalkeeper Andre Blake saved brilliantly.
In the second half, the Jamaicans hit the posts twice (70th and 87th minutes) but the Caribbean goal stood firm.
For the Hispanic community living in the United States, this victory carries several key messages.
First, it reinforces the importance of representation and diversity in sport:
A small Caribbean island proves that with cohesion and determination, barriers can be broken.
Second, it is a reminder that the CONCACAF playoffs are transforming and offering new opportunities to nations that were once considered “outsiders”.
Marks a World Cup milestone
Epic moment for Caribbean soccer
QuéOnnda.com
In addition, with the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams, nations such as Curaçao are taking advantage of the new structural possibilities of the competition.
For the U.S. Hispanic fan, this means a wider range of selections to follow, support and celebrate during the tournament.
For the Jamaican national team, the outlook now changes: by finishing in second place, they still have a chance but will have to go through the intercontinental playoff.
In summary: Curaçao achieved its big goal, marked a milestone in the history of world soccer and sends a powerful message of hope and possibility to small Latino and immigrant nations and communities in North America.
The 2026 World Cup is approaching and this is one of the stories to follow.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
