"It's something special for us to be there. Playing against players you see on TV, who play in the top leagues. Anyone can surprise. Why not Curacao? That's what we'll try to do," said the 78-year-old on Thursday at the training camp in Noordwijk, the Netherlands.
Advocaat returned to his role as Curaçao manager after Fred Rutten stepped down just three months into his tenure, having replaced Advocaat, who left Curaçao to spend more time with his ailing daughter. Advocaat's return was reportedly demanded by sponsor Corendon and the players, shrouding his comeback in controversy.
"It’s been a difficult few weeks. A lot has happened," said Advocaat, whom the Curaçao Football Federation (FFK) said was only contacted after Rutten's departure.
"Things could have turned out differently. I haven’t been in touch with Rutten. Just for an hour when I handed over the reins. I didn’t hesitate to return. I can’t think of a reason why I would."
Now that the Dutchman is back, he can't wait to get started after feeling what it means to be the smallest nation to ever qualify for the World Cup.
"Reaching the next round is our goal," he said.
"It’s unprecedented for Curaçao. There’s a huge buzz about it. The joy of those people is so beautiful. We in the Netherlands could take a leaf out of their book. We’re looking forward to it."
On June 14, the team from the Caribbean island will face Germany in Houston for their opening match of the World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. In Group E, which also includes Ivory Coast and Ecuador, Curaçao are considered clear underdogs.