Curacao secured its first-ever point at a FIFA World Cup on Saturday with a 0-0 draw against Ecuador in Kansas City, Missouri, highlighted by a remarkable performance from goalkeeper Eloy Room. The 37-year-old Miami FC player made 15 saves, setting a record for the most saves by any goalkeeper in a World Cup match within regular time since the statistic began in 1966.

Room’s heroics came after Curacao suffered a heavy 7-1 defeat to Germany in their opening Group E match. His performance kept Curacao competitive against a dominant Ecuador side, which took 27 shots — including 15 on target — but could not break through. The team’s disciplined defense and Room’s saves were key factors in preserving the goalless draw.

“This is almost a perfect game for me as a goalkeeper,” Room said, reflecting on the match. He stands just one save shy of the overall record of 16, set by former U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard during the 2014 World Cup, although Howard’s total came after extra time. Room described the experience as an unforgettable moment for both himself and his country, which has a population of roughly 158,000.

Ecuador, meanwhile, struggled to capitalize on extensive possession. Their head coach Sebastián Beccaccece acknowledged the team’s frustration but expressed pride in his players’ effort. “We wanted to win. We didn’t do it. I am the one who bears responsibility," Beccaccece said. "As long as we are alive in the tournament, we will continue to give it our all.”

The draw keeps Curacao’s hopes of advancing to the knockout stage alive, although they face a challenging path. Both Curacao and Ecuador remain in contention but are under pressure ahead of their final group matches on Thursday. Curacao will face Ivory Coast in Philadelphia, while Ecuador takes on Germany in New York.

The match drew a lively crowd at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, where Ecuador’s vibrant fan base in yellow outnumbered the smaller contingent of Curacao supporters clad in blue. Adding to the occasion, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands—Curacao’s constitutional kingdom—were present to witness the historic moment.

Curacao’s coach Dick Advocaat, aged 78, praised his squad’s resilience, noting their ability to create chances despite Ecuador’s pressure. Midfielder Tahith Chong highlighted Room’s influence: “We’ve become used to Eloy making these unbelievable saves.”

Overall, the result marked an important milestone for Curacao’s football program, granting the Caribbean nation respect on the sport’s biggest stage and offering hope for further progress in the tournament.