Dick Advocaat maintains Curacao have nothing to be ashamed of following Germany defeat

Dick Advocaat maintains Curacao have nothing to be ashamed of following Germany defeat

The 78-year-old Dutch coach stated that his players had not anticipated such an outcome, though he admitted his side conceded some straightforward goals during the Caribbean island's debut at a World Cup finals.

"We must make this a wonderful tournament," Advocaat commented. "We could spring a surprise in the second and third matches. Ultimately, we will be pleased that we took part in the largest football tournament on earth."

Felix Nmecha of Germany scored the quickest goal of the competition, and the four time world champions continued to find the back of the net, but Curacao offered their supporters reason to celebrate when Livano Comenencia's deflected strike went past goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to make the score 1-1.

Ultimately, however, Germany were too strong to overcome. Advocaat remarked that his players had no reason to feel humiliated.

"We had hoped to achieve more against Germany but we were unable to," he continued. "They were extremely strong and we let in a few simple goals.

"The players understand that if they lose, they must not be disheartened. This is no humiliation."

Advocaat also commended the travelling fans who cheered their team on even as the deficit continued to increase.

He further stated that he had to retreat to the dugout when the national anthem began, as the moment proved too overwhelming for him.

"This is connected to the happiness of the people in Curacao," he explained. "That is when the emotions rise to the top. The delight of the people is wonderful."