Fiji defeated hosts Tahiti 2-1 in the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship semifinal, securing a spot for next year’s FIFA U-17 World Cup™ in Qatar.
Tahiti had gone through the group stage unbeaten and was favored against a Fijian side that hadn’t performed well up to this point. However, the Tahitians struggled to counter Fijian physicality and resilience in defence, and Raiarii Golhen’s side was largely limited to long-range attacks.
Tahiti had more possession in the opening period but rarely threatened the Fijian defence. Playmaker Tahiti Colombani had little space to work magic and could only attempt one long-range shot. The hosts were more direct in their attack after the break but couldn’t find a way through their opponent’s defense.
It was an outstanding individual goal from Fijian speedster Rasorewa. In the 7th minute, he skillfully bypassed two defenders and slotted the ball past Tahiti keeper Keahi Tenania, igniting the game.
In the 68th minute, Fiji utilized their strength and Rasorewa’s pace again to break through the defensive line, scoring past the Tahitian goalkeeper to make it 2-0.
It took a stroke of luck for Tahiti to get back into the match, with a shot from outside the box taking a fortuitous deflection off a defender and into the back of the net with 20 minutes remaining.
Fiji and New Zealand will face off in the final on Saturday, with both teams assured of a place in next year’s World Cup. One more spot remains, with the winner of the Playoff for 3rd place between Tahiti and New Caledonia also securing their place in Qatar in 2025.
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