Goalkeeper Eloy Room produced one of the greatest performances of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Curaçao held Ecuador to a 0-0 draw and secured the first World Cup point in the nation’s history.
The 37-year-old goalkeeper made 15 saves to frustrate Ecuador throughout the match and help the Caribbean side bounce back from their heavy 7-1 defeat to Germany in their opening Group E game.
Ecuador started brightly and almost took the lead after just three minutes, but Room reacted brilliantly to deny captain Enner Valencia from close range. The experienced goalkeeper continued to stand firm as he also kept out efforts from John Yeboah and Valencia again before the break.
Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Ecuador could not find a way past the inspired goalkeeper. Room made six saves in the first half alone to keep the scores level.
The pressure increased after the interval as Ecuador coach Sebastián Beccacece introduced more attacking players in search of a winning goal. However, Room remained unbeatable.
The veteran shot-stopper produced more excellent saves to deny Moisés Caicedo, Pedro Vite, Kevin Rodríguez, Nilson Angulo and Gonzalo Plata as Ecuador piled forward.
Curaçao also threatened on a few occasions. Leandro Bacuna tested Ecuador goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez shortly after the hour mark, while Liviano Comenencia also came close to breaking the deadlock.
Ecuador finished the match with 27 attempts on goal but were unable to beat Room, whose remarkable display earned his country a famous result.
The draw also helped Germany secure qualification for the knockout stage after their victory over Ivory Coast earlier in the day.
While Curaçao celebrated a historic first World Cup point, Ecuador were left frustrated and now face a must-win final group match against Germany if they hope to reach the knockout rounds.
Curaçao will take on Ivory Coast in their final Group E fixture, knowing a victory could still send them into the last 32.
