FORT-DE-FRANCE, Martinique, CMC – Jamaica’s Reggae Boys surrendered their CFU Caribbean Cup crown when they were upset 2-1 by Curacao in the final of the tournament here Sunday night.
Goals in each half from the Denmark-based Elson Hooi condemned the Caribbean houses to the defeat, with Rosario Harriott scoring the lone goal for the deposed champions.
In the preceding third place playoff, French Guiana stunned hosts Martinique to come away with a 1-0 victory courtesy of Sloan Private’s 74th minute strike.
In the feature contest at the Stade Pierre-Aliker, Curacao struck the early blow when Hooi’s soft volley from the top of the 18-yard box put them ahead in the 10th minute.
The lead held until half-time and afterwards, Jamaica resumed their quest for the equaliser and it finally came eight minutes from time.
Shamar Nicholson’s header connected with a free kick from Michael Binns, and the ball fell for Harriott who sneaked in at the left post to beat goalkeeper Eloy Room.
At this stage, the game seemed headed for extra time but Hooi spoiled Jamaica’s plans just two minutes later. Good work by Gino van Kessel down the right saw him pass off to Hooi who made no mistake from 10 yards out.
Curacao were making their first-ever appearance in the Caribbean Cup final.
