New Caledonia qualified for the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2024 semi-finals after a thrilling match against hosts Samoa in Apia.
Samoa, the more dangerous side for much of the first period, trailed 2-1 at the break. Kingston Vaitusi scored from close range to break the deadlock, and Samoa pushed hard for a second but could not secure a two-goal cushion.
Pierre Wajoka’s side, led by Louis Brunet, turned the match in their favor as the half wore on. New Caledonia completed a remarkable opening-period comeback, with Jythrim Upa tucking the ball into an empty net from the edge of the area.
Paul Qaeze continued his impressive tournament with a surging run into the box, and Louis Brunet fired home to make it 2-1.
Both sides increased their intensity in the second half, but the game’s physical nature hampered creative efforts. Qaeze came close to putting the result beyond doubt, but his low effort was smacked against the base of the post.
New Caledonia: 2 (Jythrim UPA 41’, Louis BRUNET 45+3′)
Samoa: 1 (Kingston VAITUSI 16’)
HT: 2-1
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