Last-Gasp Equalizer Sees Curaçao Snatch Point from Canada in Gold Cup Thriller

 

Written by: MAi' Ghen Storm, SFL Writer | Photo credit: Oscar Herrera, SFL Photographer


Houston, Texas - Curaçao stunned Canada with a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer to secure a 1-1 draw in a Group B Concacaf Gold Cup clash at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The result denied Canada an early qualification for the quarterfinals and leaves Group B wide open heading into the final matchday.

Canada, fresh off a dominant 6-0 victory over Honduras, looked set to continue their strong start to the tournament when Nathan Saliba opened the scoring early in the 9th minute. The CF Montréal midfielder capitalized on an attempted clearance, slotting home a first-time shot from inside the box to give the Canucks the lead.

Despite Canada's early advantage and several opportunities to extend their lead – including a shot from Tani Oluwaseyi that was well saved by Curaçao goalkeeper Eloy Room in the 35th minute – Curaçao grew into the game, showing resilience and creating their own chances. Jürgen Locadia nearly found an equalizer for the Caribbean side just before halftime, but his left-footed attempt went wide.

The second half saw a more determined Curaçao pressing for the equalizer. They thought they had found it in the 66th minute when Locadia clinically finished at the far post, only for the goal to be disallowed after a Video Review for a narrow offside call. This near-miss only fueled Curaçao's resolve.

As the clock ticked down and Canada appeared to be holding on for a crucial 1-0 victory, Curaçao found their breakthrough in the 90+4th minute. A well-placed through ball from Joshua Zimmerman found substitute Jeremy Antonisse, who broke free behind the Canadian backline. Antonisse showed composure, striking a finish to the far post to send the Curaçao bench and fans into raptures.

Canada had a final chance to reclaim the lead in the 90+8th minute through Cyle Larin, but Room once again stood tall, pulling off a key save to ensure the points were split.

The draw leaves Canada atop Group B with four points, but their path to the quarterfinals is not yet secured. Curaçao, with two draws, sits on two points. The group's fate will now be decided on Tuesday, June 24, when Canada faces El Salvador in Houston, while Curaçao takes on Honduras in San Jose, California. The dramatic finish in Houston ensures a tense conclusion to Group B.

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