WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao has secured a victory over the Netherlands in a friendly youth match as part of preparations for the upcoming Fundashon Bicentini World Cup 2026 for children.
The match, played at the Mgr. Nieuwindt College, ended 3-3 in regular time, with Curaçao ultimately claiming the win after a penalty shootout.
Curaçao took an early lead, but the Netherlands equalized before halftime and went ahead shortly after the break. The home side fought back to regain the advantage, only for the Dutch team to level the score again in the closing stages of the match. In the decisive penalty shootout, Curaçao proved more clinical.
The match forms part of the build-up to the international youth tournament, which is set to begin on April 19 and will feature participation from 46 countries. Curaçao will be represented by Frater Evonius College from Koraalspecht.
According to tournament initiator Remko Bicentini, the project aims to support not only the athletic development of children but also their social growth. The tournament experience is designed to mirror a real World Cup setting, including transportation by national team bus and an official match atmosphere.
The event has also attracted international attention, with Dutch media present at the match.
The victory marks Curaçao’s second win in its preparations for the tournament, boosting confidence ahead of the competition’s opening.