WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao national team head coach Dick Advocaat expressed optimism about the island's chances in the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualification matches, but also voiced disappointment over certain players’ refusal to join the squad. During a pre-match press conference ahead of games against Saint Lucia and Haiti, Advocaat emphasized commitment, team spirit, and continuity as key ingredients for success. 

The veteran coach explained that he deliberately selected a close-knit group, mostly made up of players who have featured in recent international matches. “We’ve played eight matches, won six, drawn one, and lost one – all with more or less the same core group,” said Advocaat. 

The current roster includes several players who are not getting regular playing time at their clubs, but Advocaat dismissed this as a problem. “If I only chose players who play every week, I’d be left with maybe ten. We select based on effort and potential, not just club form.” 

Advocaat acknowledged that Curaçao still struggles to convince some eligible players to commit to the national team. Nevertheless, he highlighted the recent late call-up of Martina, a player with limited club minutes but valuable experience and strong chemistry within the group. “It’s not just about form – character matters. This team has shown from day one that they’re willing to fight.” 

The coach also praised the improved collaboration with the Curaçao Football Federation. He credited team coordinator Gilbert Martina and new staff for bringing more professionalism to the organization. “We get paid on time now, and there’s real stability. That wasn’t always the case in the past,” said Advocaat, who made clear he won’t let financial or organizational setbacks derail the team’s mission. 

He closed the press conference with a message of confidence: “We believe in this group. Over the past year, we’ve proven we have quality. Now it’s up to us to build on that momentum.”