First Touch ’26 - Curaçao

Curaçao: beaches, blue water… and the biggest underdog story of the 2026 World Cup. In this World Cup Capsule, David Gass dives into how the “Blue Wave” became the smallest nation ever to qualify for the tournament, from their origins as part of the Netherlands Antilles to a dream qualifying run that went down to a VAR-reviewed penalty in Jamaica. We break down Dick Advocaat’s impact, the Dutch-based diaspora that powers the squad, the rise of young winger Sontje Hansen, and the wild celebrations back on the island. Come for the tactics and history, stay for the culture, language, and vibes that make Curaçao one of the most romantic stories of this World Cup.