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It has truly been a remarkable tournament for goalkeepers representing smaller footballing nations. After Cabo Verde’s Vozinha captured global attention with his sensational performance against Spain last week, another name has now emerged in the limelight.

This time, it’s Curaçao’s veteran custodian Eloy Room who has stolen the show. The experienced shot-stopper delivered an unforgettable performance in a stunning draw against Ecuador on Saturday evening in Kansas City, etching his name into FIFA World Cup history in the process.

Room, who currently features for Miami FC in the American lower division, the USL Championship, produced a magnificent display, registering 15 saves during the match. His heroic performance between the posts kept Curaçao in the contest and marked one of the most extraordinary goalkeeping exhibitions in recent memory.

That tally of 15 saves set a new record for the most recorded saves in a FIFA World Cup match (since 1966) that did not include extra time. The previous best was held by United States goalkeeper Tim Howard, who made 16 saves against Belgium during the round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup—but Howard required an additional 30 minutes of extra time to achieve that number.

Room came remarkably close to Howard’s record within just 90 minutes of regulation play on Saturday, propelling himself into the spotlight as one of the standout stories of this summer’s tournament.

It’s all the more impressive considering that just a week ago, Room had conceded seven goals in Curaçao’s opening match against Germany. His incredible turnaround from that difficult outing to this record-breaking performance speaks volumes about his resilience and determination.

It was also a night to remember for Dick Advocaat’s Curaçao side, who showcased immense fighting spirit to secure a memorable draw against a formidable Ecuadorian team.

📸 JUAN MABROMATA - AFP (or licensors)