Curaçao goalkeeper Eloy Room delivered a record-equalling performance in Kansas City, making 15 saves to secure a 0–0 draw against Ecuador in the World Cup. The six-foot-three shot-stopper’s heroics earned Curaçao its first-ever World Cup point and global attention for the small island nation of about 156,000 people. Despite not winning, the result was celebrated as a milestone in the country’s football history.

Before this match, Curaçao had suffered a heavy defeat to Germany, leading many to underestimate the team. However, Room’s 15 saves matched the highest number recorded in a 90-minute World Cup match since records began in 1966, according to Opta. Former Arsenal defender and BBC analyst Martin Keown praised Room’s performance, calling the draw “as good as a win.”

Curaçao, ranked 82nd by FIFA, will next face Ivory Coast in its final group match. Although advancing to the knockout stage remains difficult, the draw against Ecuador has already become a defining moment for Curaçaoan football and for Room, who joked that a statue might be built in his honor.