Goalkeeper Eloy Room produced a stunning performance with 11 saves as Curacao held Ecuador to a 0-0 draw in FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying on Thursday. The result marks Curacao's first-ever point against a South American opponent and one of the biggest upsets in CONCACAF vs. CONMEBOL history.
Room's Heroics Echo Howard's Record
Room's 11 saves are the most by a goalkeeper in a World Cup qualifier since 2018. American Tim Howard holds the World Cup record for all-time saves with 16, but that was after extra time in the U.S. loss to Belgium in the round of 16 in 2014. Room's performance in regular time is being compared to that iconic display.
Ecuador dominated possession with 68% and registered 23 shots, but Room's reflexes and positioning kept them at bay. The Ecuadorian attack, led by Enner Valencia and Gonzalo Plata, was frustrated time and again.
Historic Result for Curacao
Curacao, ranked 79th in the world, entered the match as heavy underdogs against Ecuador (ranked 32nd). The draw gives Curacao their first point in Group B of CONCACAF qualifying, keeping their slim World Cup hopes alive. "This is a dream come true for us," said Curacao captain Cuco Martina. "We believed we could get something from this game, and Eloy was incredible."
Ecuador coach Gustavo Alfaro acknowledged the result: "We created enough chances to win, but their goalkeeper had the match of his life. We must be more clinical in front of goal."
Impact on Group B Standings
Ecuador remain top of Group B with 7 points from 3 matches, but the draw allows second-placed Chile to close the gap. Curacao move to 1 point, keeping them in contention for a playoff spot. The result also boosts Curacao's confidence ahead of their next match against Venezuela.
Room, who plays for Columbus Crew in MLS, was named Man of the Match. His performance drew praise from fans and pundits alike, with many calling it one of the best goalkeeping displays in recent qualifying history.
