World Cup star equals stunning 60-year record and jokes ‘I think I need a statue’

Eloy Room made a record-equalling 15 World Cup saves in Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Ecuador to earn Curacao a first ever tournament point.

The 37-year-old was a goalkeeper inspired in Kansas as the Caribbean nation bounced back following their opening 7-1 defeat to Germany in Group E.

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Room, who plies his trade at American second-tier side Miami FC, even joked his dazzling display is worthy of having a statue erected in his honour.

Since records began in 1966, the former PSV shot-stopper made 15 saves – equalling the record set by Everton cult hero Tim Howard.

The ex-Manchester United man made as many stops during America‘s 2-1 defeat to Belgium in the last-16 stage in 2014.

But unlike Howard 12 years ago in Brazil, Room is the first goalkeeper to make 15 saves in normal time.

And he is the only goalkeeper to deny the opposition on as many occasions without conceding.

Incredibly, Ecuador, who had 25 shots during the match, created an xG [expected goals] of 3.08.

What did Room say about his record?

Speaking on equalling the record, Room said: “A little bit annoyed that I don’t have the record from Tim Howard.

“But I think he was sweating in front of the TV because I was close.

“But no, it’s unbelievable, and I cannot do it alone.

“I did it with the team and my defenders and the midfielders, strikers, we did it as a team.”

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The historic result keeps Curacao’s hopes of advancing into the knockout stages alive – needing to beat Ivory Coast in their final match.

But even if Dick Advocaat’s side fail to claim their first World Cup win on Thursday, Room is still hoping he will be honoured in his homeland.

He remarked: “It means everything, it feels like a victory, it’s the first point at the World Cup, it means everything.

“It is unreal, the journey where we came from and we are now here and we showed we have real heart, it’s an unbelievable feeling.

“I knew it was a lot of saves. I know it was a record from a long time ago, so I am really proud.

“It was a really good feeling. My first save gave me confidence, I knew it was going to be a busy game.

“I am little bit bummed because we had chances to score. For us this feels like a victory.

“I think in 40 years I will remember this, it will be insane. I think I need a statue in Curacao now.”