Sontje Hansen shifts focus to World Cup after Wembley playoff heartbreak

Sontje Hansen prepares to join Curaçao’s World Cup preparations in Noordwijk on Monday, following a dramatic week that culminated in a 1-0 defeat to Hull City in the Championship Play-Off Final at Wembley Stadium. The Middlesbrough midfielder missed out on Premier League promotion after a season of highs and setbacks.

Curaçao’s national team announced Hansen’s inclusion for the upcoming training camp, marking his first involvement with the squad ahead of World Cup qualifiers. The 24-year-old, who joined Middlesbrough from Ajax in January, will reunite with teammates as the Caribbean side refines its preparations under head coach Remko Bicentini.

Middlesbrough’s season ended in frustration after finishing sixth in the Championship, securing a spot in the playoffs but falling short in the decisive match. Southampton’s promotion was revoked due to a spying scandal, elevating Hull City to face Middlesbrough in the final. Hansen’s club form included 10 appearances for Boro, contributing to their late push for automatic promotion.

Hansen expressed the emotional toll of the Wembley defeat, acknowledging the need for time to process the disappointment. His transition from club setbacks to national team duty reflects a shift in priorities as he aims to contribute to Curaçao’s international ambitions.

Curaçao’s camp in Noordwijk will serve as a transitional phase before upcoming qualifiers, with Hansen expected to feature prominently. The squad, featuring several overseas-based players, will focus on tactical cohesion and fitness ahead of competitive fixtures.

The inclusion of Hansen, a player with Eredivisie experience at Ajax, adds depth to Curaçao’s midfield options. His technical profile and versatility provide tactical flexibility for Bicentini, who has emphasized squad development in recent months.

For Hansen, the focus now shifts to representing his national team with renewed determination. The upcoming camp offers an opportunity to refocus after a season of mixed outcomes at club level.

Curaçao’s preparations continue amid a busy international calendar, with Hansen’s involvement signaling the federation’s commitment to building a competitive squad for future tournaments.