SYDNEY (DA) — Curaçao captain Leandro Bacuna pushed back against any attempt to frame his team as a small or lesser side Thursday, saying the World Cup-bound squad has earned its place and intends to show it again against China.
Speaking alongside coach Fred Rutten at a pre-match news conference at Accor Stadium Olympic Park, Bacuna said opponents should not draw the wrong conclusions about Curaçao.
“We have worked hard to reach the World Cup and will keep working hard to deliver a strong performance in the tournament,” Bacuna said.
He said Curaçao’s players are all professionals and should not be viewed as part of a minor national team.
Bacuna also downplayed concerns about the long trip to Australia, where players traveled for extended hours, some more than others, to reach Sydney. He said he does not expect that to have much effect on the team’s performance against China, although rest and acclimatization remain factors to consider.
Rutten also addressed the media and praised the Chinese side in response to a question from a Chinese reporter.
“China is a team that can play at a high level for 90 minutes plus,” Rutten said. “They are very disciplined and follow their coach’s instructions.”
Rutten also spoke at length about Curaçao’s condition and the impact of the long journey to Australia. He echoed Bacuna’s message, saying Curaçao has a group of professional players who are carrying out the instructions they have been given.
Curaçao is set to face China on Friday at Accor Stadium in Sydney. The match is scheduled for 2 a.m. Curaçao time.