Vietnam had the better of the first half but they were unable to turn their possession into goals with Van Toan and Cong Phuong missing good openings for the Golden Dragons.
Curacao also produced a number of opportunities to score, but could not convert any of them into a goal, including a finish over the crossbar by Arias in the 28th minute and a strike off post by Bacuna three minutes later.
Vietnam could have taken the lead eight minutes after the break when Minh Vuong fired wide from a good position.
The wasted opportunities forced Vietnam to pay dearly, as Carolina blasted a powerful shot past keeper Dang Van Lam from the edge of the box two minutes before the hour mark.
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Cong Phuong misses a number of opportunities to score during the match. (Photo: Vnexpress)
With time running out, better fitness allowed Curacao to take control and came close to doubling their advantage twice with two inaccurate shots by Benschop in the 70th and 74th minutes.
Despite trailing a goal behind, Vietnamese players still remained patient and pushed hard to equalise the score.
Their efforts finally paid off seven minutes from overtime, with Duc Huy slotting home from close range to restore parity, leaving no chance for Curacao keeper Room to manage a save.
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Vietnamese players celebrate as Duc Huy equalises the score. (Photo: Vnexpress)
Failing to find the back of the net again in the remainder of the final, both teams were sent to the penalty shootout where Curacao managed five successful kicks compared to Vietnam’s just four to claim the overall trophy.
Despite missing out on the title, Park Hang-seo’s side had a successful King’s Cup tournament with a convincing 1-0 victory over archrivals Thailand, and a brave final match against Curacao, who were higher rated with their better fitness and physique.
