Curaçao made it three consecutive victories in the current CONCACAF Nations League campaign with a 1-0 win over Trinidad & Tobago at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad, a result settled by Juninho Bacuna's 58th-minute strike.
The match, played on Thursday night, drew 7,662 spectators and gave Curaçao another clean sheet in a game they controlled for long periods. For a side that has generated fresh enthusiasm after its historic first appearance at the FIFA World Cup earlier this year, this was another measured step forward rather than a spectacular one.
Bacuna provides the decisive moment
The only goal came after a pass from Tahith Chong, with Bacuna finishing in the 58th minute to make it his 16th international goal for Curaçao. It was the sort of moment that underlined the difference between the two sides: Curaçao created more, threatened more often and made their pressure count.
The numbers tell the story clearly enough. Curaçao registered 18 shots and nine shots on target, while Trinidad & Tobago managed just two shots on target. That level of control meant the home side were able to protect the lead without ever looking panicked.
Trinidad & Tobago left with work to do
Trinidad & Tobago's task became even harder in the 71st minute when Dantaye Gilbert was sent off. From there, the contest was effectively about whether Curaçao could stay disciplined and see the game out, and they did exactly that.
For Trinidad & Tobago, the immediate concern is how to respond when the two teams meet again on Sunday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain. For Curaçao, the picture is more encouraging: a growing run of results, a reliable winning habit and another night that strengthens belief around the squad.
