Curacao is undergoing a significant change in leadership as coach Dick Advocaat has resigned just four months before the FIFA World Cup. Advocaat, who led the small Caribbean island nation to its first-ever World Cup appearance, stepped down due to personal circumstances surrounding his daughter's illness. This unexpected decision comes as a shock not only to the team but also to fans who celebrated the team's historic qualification for the tournament in the United States.

In a statement, Advocaat emphasized the importance of family, stating that it always comes before football. His resignation marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Curacao's sporting history, as Advocaat managed to guide what is recognized as the smallest FIFA member nation to the grand stage of the World Cup. His extensive experience in coaching, including stints at Borussia Mönchengladbach and the Netherlands national team, had provided valuable leadership to the Curacao team.

Taking over as head coach is Fred Rutten, who is well-regarded in coaching circles and previously managed Schalke. Rutten's immediate appointment aims to ensure continuity and stability as Curacao heads into the World Cup, where they will aim to make a mark against formidable opponents. The change in coaching staff just before such a major event poses challenges, yet it also presents an opportunity for Rutten to bring his strategies to the team, potentially enhancing their performance on the world stage.