Goalkeeper Eloy Room produced a record-breaking performance to help Curacao secure their first-ever World Cup point in a 0-0 draw against Ecuador in Kansas City. The tiny Caribbean nation, making their debut at the tournament, withstood a relentless assault from Ecuador, who fired 28 shots—15 on target. Room's 15 saves are the most by any goalkeeper in a World Cup match without extra time since records began in 1966.
Ecuador, who finished second in South American qualifying, dominated possession with 65% in the first half but could not find a way past Room. Former West Ham forward Enner Valencia was denied early on, and Gonzalo Plata saw a header saved just before the hour mark.
Curacao, who lost 7-1 to Germany in their opener, showed resilience and even threatened on the break through Sherel Floranus. The match was attended by Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, as Curacao is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Most of the squad, coached by Dutch veteran Dick Advocaat, were born in the Netherlands.
As the game wore on, Ecuador grew frustrated. Substitute Angelo Preciado hit the crossbar with a mis-hit cross. At the final whistle, Curacao players mobbed Room in celebration of a historic point. The result means Germany top Group E, with Ecuador facing Germany next and Curacao taking on Ivory Coast.