When Goliath Kneels

I witnessed an interesting story that developed during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tiny nation of Curaçao were preparing for their match against Germany. An easy reference often used in these situations is the one of David meeting Goliath. The broadcasters were using it and I don’t believe anyone would argue the reference. The players themselves were referencing it too.

One thing that was not so usual is that the Curaçao team were praying together before the game. Often personal glory is prayed for but the players were looking to glorify God.

One might think this became another Cinderella story that sports often supply. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Curaçao actually lost the game 7 to 1. Where things became interesting again was what happened after the game on the field. A group of Curaçao players and German players embraced each other and formed a circle. They bowed their heads and prayed.

This has never happened at a World Cup before. This deeply impacted me. There’s usually disappointment and even anger. This was the opposite. It became a moment of gratitude. In a world full of egotism and hate, this quiet gesture broke down walls that coordinated efforts never could. German midfielder Felix Nmecha put it simply afterward: “In the game we are opponents, but after the match we are all Christians and brothers. We simply said a little prayer together because we are all very grateful.”

It’s not a story where the perceived Goliath being Germany is defeated but rather a different Goliath was defeated on this day. Barriers are built when we fight but if we choose the unity that only God can bring the world will notice. Just like in the story of David and Goliath where God received the glory, here too God also received the glory.

That they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I am in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. John 17:21

By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:35

Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!  Psalm 95:6

By René Boecking | explorewithrene.com