Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten congratulated Curaçao’s national football team on its historic FIFA World Cup debut, despite their 7–1 loss to Germany. Curaçao made history as the smallest country by population to qualify for the World Cup, marking their first-ever appearance. Livano Comenencia scored Curaçao’s first World Cup goal, creating a moment of pride.
Minister Heyliger-Marten emphasized that one goal is a significant achievement, noting the emotional weight of the match as the players entered the field. She stated that size does not dictate ambition or national pride, highlighting how Curaçao’s players represented not just their nation but small island communities everywhere.
She also acknowledged Curaçao’s Guinness World Records recognition as the smallest country to qualify for the World Cup, calling it a regional milestone. The Minister encouraged the Curaçao team and supporters to stay proud as the tournament continues, asserting that their achievements will resonate far beyond the scoreline.