The goalkeeper produced a staggering 15 saves to hold Ecuador to a 0–0 draw, repeatedly denying what looked like certain goals and carrying his side through sustained pressure.
Ecuador dominated large periods of the match and created a succession of clear chances, but Room responded with a combination of sharp reflexes, strong positioning and remarkable composure. From close range stops to diving saves at full stretch, his resistance defined the evening.
Highlights: Ecuador vs Curacao
For Curacao, the result marks a significant milestone on the world stage. Rarely troubled going forward, they nevertheless emerged with a historic point, secured almost entirely through their goalkeeper’s intervention.
Room finished just one save short of the all time World Cup record for saves in a single match, set by Tim Howard in 2014, underlining the scale of his contribution and the pressure he endured throughout.
Ecuador will be left to reflect on a performance that lacked only a finishing touch, while Curaçao depart with a result that will sit among the most memorable in their football history.
🇨🇼 A WORLD CUP LEGEND IS BORN!
🧤 Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room just dropped 15 ABSOLUTE BANGERS of saves against Ecuador — delivering his country’s FIRST EVER point in a FIFA World Cup!
🧱 One save away from equaling Tim Howard’s all-time record… What a performance!
👏 This… pic.twitter.com/8FO0IiEJDB
— FIFA World Cup Stats (@alimo_philip) June 21, 2026
Photo: Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images