Eloy Room has written his name into World Cup history, winning FIFA Man of the Match after producing the most saves ever recorded in 90 minutes at a World Cup match. This extraordinary performance came in Curaçao’s 0–0 draw with Ecuador, a result that keeps their hopes of qualification alive.
Softfootball understands this is a historic moment for Curaçao, who are competing in their first-ever World Cup, representing a nation of just 156,000 people.
Room set the tone early, making his first save just three minutes in against Enner Valencia. From that moment, he delivered a masterclass in goalkeeping, denying John Yeboah, Moisés Caicedo, Pedro Vite, Kevin Rodriguez, Nilson Angulo, Gonzalo Plata and among many others, frustrating Ecuador’s 27 total attempts.
Curaçao were not without threat themselves. On the hour mark, Leandro Bacuna forced a save, while Livano Comenencia also tested Hernán Galíndez, showing the island nation were not content to simply defend.
Ecuador, wasteful in front of goal, now face a must‑win scenario against group leaders Germany. Curaçao, who lost 7–1 to Germany in their opening match, could still qualify for the knockout stage if they defeat Ivory Coast in their final group game.
