Ex-FIFA referee re-analyses penalty controversy as Curacao make history vs Ecuador

Curacao made World Cup history when securing a goalless draw against Ecuador, but there was a heart-in-mouth moment at the end.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that referee Ning Ma dealt with some penalty controversy very well in the closing stages.

Ecuador are at serious risk of being eliminated in the group stages, and so the South American side were pushing for a late goal when John Yeboah went down inside the penalty area.

It was a risky challenge for Sherel Floranus to make in the 76th minute on Sunday, 21 June, but one that the defender correctly escaped, it would appear.

With goalkeeper Eloy Room making 15 saves, Curacao held on for the nation's first-ever point at a World Cup, creating a moment of history in the process.

There was nearly heartbreak for the team ranked 82nd in the world, but any Ecuador fans arguing that a penalty should have been awarded, Hackett has shut them down immediately.

Ning Ma spot-on as Curacao earn historic World Cup result

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: "I think the player knew exactly what he was doing there. He cleverly puts the brakes on and starts to go down.

"So for me, it's not a penalty kick. The referee has judged it correctly. These are the things that are difficult for referees.

"These are the clever acts of simulation that apply a degree of pressure on the referee, and therefore, what this player has tried to do is win a penalty kick by going to ground.

"He puts the brakes on, and the guy suddenly puts his hands out, not in a pushing manner, but more to hold his balance, so the referee got it right."

Dick Advocaat 'deserves a statue' after Curacao make history

Following the draw, Hackett has called for a statue to be erected in Dick Advocaat's honour, having returned to the national team just before tournament kicked off under difficult circumstances.

"The saves were incredible. And I like the comment from one of the broadcasters who said they're going to put a statue up to this guy," he said.

"To see their long-serving world-renowned manager shedding a tear... This is a guy who could have his feet up retired.

"He's taking that job on to help promote football on the world stage by taking on such a small country and credit to him.

"So for me, okay, you can have a statue to the goalkeeper. If you're going to do that, then remember the manager because I think he's brought these people together."