WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao started the play-offs in the second round of the World Cup qualification on Saturday (local time) with a 2-1 defeat against Panama. The return is in Willemstad on Tuesday.

The team of interim national coach Patrick Kluivert (who replaces Guus Hiddink, who is recovering from a corona infection) trailed 2-0 in Panama by goals from Alberto Quintero and Cecilio Waterman in the second half.

Thanks to Rangelo Janga's connection goal in the 87th minute, Curaçao still has perspective for the return. The NEC attacker scored from close range from the rebound.

In Curaçao, (former) Eredivisie players such as Eloy Room, Cuco Martina, Juriën Gaari, Suently Alberto, Vurnon Anita, Jarchinio Antonia and Juninho and Leandro Bacuna were in the starting lineup.