Fifa World Cup: Curaçao World Cup preparations rocked as coach resigns

“That is why stepping down is the right decision. Time is pressing and Curacao must move forward. I regret how things unfolded, but I wish everyone the best.”

Under Rutten, Curacao suffered two comprehensive friendly defeats in March, losing 5-1 to fellow World Cup qualifiers Australia and 2-0 to China.

There was no immediate word on who would now replace Rutten as coach for the World Cup, where the tiny former Dutch colony has been drawn in a daunting Group E against Germany, Ecuador and Ivory Coast.

The federation said it would “decide on next steps” later on Monday (local time).

“The federation’s focus is now on maintaining calm around the national team and continuing to build toward Curacao’s sporting ambitions,” the statement said.

The federation said a press conference had been scheduled for Tuesday (local time) which would provide “further explanation regarding developments” following Rutten’s appointment in February and leading to his departure three months later.

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