Curaçao goalkeeper Eloy Room tied a WC record with 15 saves against Ecuador on June 20, 2026.

Room, 37, arrived at the World Cup after a contract‑free spell in the USL Championship and delivered one of Curaçao's most memorable performances. His 15‑save, goalless draw against Ecuador matched the record for most saves in a single World Cup match. Within 24 hours he gained nearly a million new Instagram followers and was swarmed for autographs.

How did Room achieve the record?

After his contract with Cercle Brugge ended in 2025, Room was club‑less. He moved to Miami with his wife, trained on his own, and eventually signed a two‑year deal with Miami FC. The steady playing time in the USL gave him the fitness to be at peak form on June 20, 2026. In the Ecuador match he kept the ball out of the net and made 15 crucial saves, including a reflex stop in the 23rd minute and a dive in the 78th.

What does this mean for Curaçao?

Room said, “I wanted to put Curaçao on the map. That was our main mission as a team and as a nation.” His feat came after Curaçao fell 0‑2 to Ivory Coast on June 25, 2026. The recent form (LDDLW) shows a side struggling, but a record‑setting keeper can lift confidence. Fans in Miami and back home in Willemstad cheered, and media highlighted that a strong goalkeeper is a foundation for further success.

What lies ahead?

After the group stage, Room returned to Miami FC four days later, quickly slipping back onto the pitch for a few hundred supporters. He continues to aim for a possible return to the United States and already plans to be a key figure at the 2030 World Cup. For Curaçao, this gives the national team a global ambassador who can attract attention for future qualifiers and sponsorship deals.

How does the future look?

Room’s contract with Miami FC includes an option for a third season, and the club is building a new stadium and modern training complex. This stability could help him maintain form and keep inspiring Curaçao. With the recent form and the recent loss to Ivory Coast, every extra boost is vital for the squad.

Last result: Curaçao 0‑2 Ivory Coast (2026‑06‑25). Recent form (last 5): 1W‑2D‑2L (LDDLW, most recent first).