Fiji’s OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024 campaign advances to Vanuatu following a 9-1 victory over Samoa. Key players such as Setareki Hughes, Etonia Dogalau, and Roy Krishna each scored two goals. Additionally, Thomas Dunn contributed to the scoreline with a looping header, and Krishna successfully converted a penalty.
Despite the uphill battle, Samoa showed promise in the early stages of the second period. Their struggle to maintain momentum was evident, yet their resilience was commendable.
Although it was challenging to capitalize on their early advantage, Coach Ryan Stewart’s team fought on. A trip by Thomas Dunn in the area resulted in a successful penalty for Roy Krishna, re-establishing Fiji’s three-goal lead.
Setareki Hughes scored a second goal and later set up Etonia Dogalau for an eighth goal. Dogalau scored again, bringing the final score to 9-1 as the match neared its end.
Fiji’s journey in the final group stage of the OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024 is far from over. It will culminate with a crucial match against Tahiti on Saturday, a game that will undoubtedly keep fans on the edge of their seats. Following this, they will face either New Zealand or Vanuatu in a high-stakes semi-final challenge in Port Vila, a match that could potentially define their campaign.
Meanwhile, despite the setback, Samoa will regroup for their final match against Papua New Guinea, who are still in contention for a spot in the final four.
Fiji’s OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024 campaign will continue with a semi-final match in Port Vila against New Zealand or Vanuatu.
Samoa: 1 (Luke SALISBURY 47′)
Fiji: 9 (Setareki HUGHES 3′, 61′, Thomas DUNN 38′, Roy KRISHNA (P) 45+2′, (P) 54′, Filipe BARAVIALA 64′, Nabil BEGG 67′), Etonia DOGALAU 83′, 90′)
HT: 0-3
