Curacao’s World Cup Squad Announced: Four Players with Bundesliga Experience Included

Curacao, Germany’s first opponent in the upcoming World Cup, has announced its squad for the tournament. The team, led by returning successful coach Dick Advocaat, will make its debut at the World Cup.

The 78-year-old coach has primarily selected players who were instrumental in the team’s successful qualification for the finals, which will take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada from June 11th to July 19th.

Out of the 26-man squad, four players possess Bundesliga experience: Jürgen Locadia previously played for Hoffenheim and Bochum. Riechedly Bazoer (formerly Wolfsburg), Tahith Chong, who was on loan to Bremen a few years ago, and Joshua Brenet (formerly Hoffenheim) are also part of the team.

Additionally, eight of the nominated players are currently active in the Netherlands. These include Armando Obispo from PSV Eindhoven, Deveron Fonville from NEC Nijmegen, Sherel Floranus (PEC Zwolle), and Shurandy Sambo (Sparta Rotterdam).

Dick Advocaat Returns as Curacao Coach Shortly Before the World Cup

Advocaat, who previously coached Borussia Mönchengladbach from 2004 to 2005, had managed the Caribbean island’s team during the qualification campaign. However, he stepped down afterwards to care for his seriously ill daughter. Following the recent resignation of his successor and compatriot Fred Rutten due to internal disputes, Advocaat has taken the helm once more.

Curacao will play its historic first World Cup match on June 14th in Houston, Texas, against Germany, coached by Julian Nagelsmann. Other opponents in Group E include Ecuador and Ivory Coast. The German Football Association (DFB) squad will be announced by Nagelsmann next Thursday.

Former Bundesliga Professionals in the World Cup Squad of Germany’s Opponent, Curacao