Curacao, the smallest nation ever, is poised to make World Cup history with former Manchester United academy graduates Kenji Gorre and Tahith Chong. The Caribbean island, with a population of just over 150,000, relies on players with Dutch ancestral links, with Chong being the only squad member born there. Gorre, now playing for Maccabi Haifa, was the first to join United's academy and has earned 37 caps for Curacao. His father, Dean Gorre, serves as the technical director.

Chong, who previously played for Netherlands Under-21s, officially switched allegiance to his birth nation last year. He made 16 first-team appearances for Manchester United before moving to Birmingham City and currently plays for Sheffield United. Both players express immense pride and excitement for this "dream come true" experience, especially as they prepare to face Germany, Ecuador, and Ivory Coast in the group stage. The island's population is celebrating this historic achievement.