Curacao, a former Dutch colony, filled with players from the Eredivisie, Eerste Divisie, and other European leagues lifted their first trophy in the 2017 Caribbean Cup.
- By Spencer Steevensz
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Curacao’s main claim to fame in the football world is attracting Patrick Kluivert to be their head coach two-years ago. One of his assistant’s, Remko Bicentini, who took over when Kluivert left, has now led them to the first trophy thanks to a win over Jamaica.
Curacao is known much more for their beaches than football players, but the young nation, who until 2011 played as part of the Netherlands Antilles, is starting to show signs of growth. A 2-1 win over Jamaica, the Caribbean’s most advanced football national will be a welcome show for a country that has started to put more resources into its national program. Made up of mainly Dutch players who would have little to no chance of being called up by Holland, who are proud to represent the island that they, their parents, or ancestors came from.
Their highest profile player, Cuco Martina, who was recently released by Southampton and is being linked heavily with Everton, captained the team to their momentous win.
Curacao look to continue their development in the Gold Cup starting in July, where they’ll meat Jamaica again, before playing El Salvador and powerhouse Mexico.
As they continue to develop, it will be easier for them to attract higher profile talent. They’re rumored to be chasing PSV’s Jurgen Locadia, who is holding out for a call-up to the Dutch team, but could choose to represent Curacao if they continue to show signs of growth, and Oranje don’t come knocking on his door.
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I'm a digital/social marketer out of Chicago. I grew up loving Dutch football - total football is the only way to play. I support PSV in the Eredivisie, and whatever team has the most Dutch guys on it in any other league. Hup Holland Hup!
