Eloy jokes ‘I deserves a statue’

Heroic goalkeeper Eloy Room joked he deserves a statue in Curaçao after delivering a record-breaking performance that earned the Caribbean nation its first-ever FIFA World Cup (WC) point in a goalless draw against Ecuador in Kansas City on Saturday.

Room made 15 saves, the most by any goalkeeper in a World Cup match since records began in 1966, as Curaçao produced a spirited response to their 7-1 defeat against Germany in their opening Group E fixture.

The result was a historic moment for the tiny nation of just 158,000 people and keeps their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive. Curaçao will advance if they can overcome Ivory Coast in their final group match.

“It means everything, it feels like a victory, it’s the first point at the World Cup, it means everything,” Room said.

“It is unreal, the journey where we came from and we are now here and we showed we have real heart, it’s an unbelievable feeling.”

The 37-year-old was in outstanding form from the opening minutes, denying Ecuador captain Enner Valencia before repeatedly frustrating the South Americans with a series of impressive saves.

“I knew it was a lot of saves. I know it was a record from a long time ago, so I am really proud,” he said.

Despite spending long periods under pressure, Curaçao also threatened, with Tahith Chong, Juninho Bacuna and Jurgen Locadia all going close.

Ecuador continued to push for a winner, but Room remained unbeatable as he produced several crucial stops to secure a memorable point.

“I think in 40 years I will remember this, it will be insane. I think I need a statue in Curaçao now,” Room joked after the final whistle.