The Papua New Guinea and Tahiti match in Group B of the OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024 in Suva was a thrilling display of resilience. Both teams fought for a chance to advance to the semi-finals next week.
The match kicked off with Papua New Guinea dominating the first 45 minutes, but Tahiti, showing their own resilience, managed to take the lead within 15 minutes.
Samuel Garcia’s strategic counter-attack set the stage for Matéo Degrumelle to outmaneuver the defense and draw in Ronald Warisan.
Papua New Guinea, not to be outdone, responded with their own strategic moves, led by the dynamic Tommy Semmy. Ati Kepo, a midfielder for Hekari United, executed a well-planned move to score the equalizer after nine minutes.
Tahiti continued to press for the go-ahead goal, with Semmy and Yagi Yasasa coming close. Warren Moon’s half-time comments had a positive impact as Papua New Guinea continued to press for the goal.
However, just past the hour mark, Tahiti missed an excellent opportunity to take a crucial lead. A break saw Semmy curl a low cross to Ati Kepo, but his stretch wasn’t enough to meet the ball, and Tahiti survived.
Delays led to a lengthy stoppage time, with both teams seeking a crucial winning goal. Papua New Guinea had the majority of possession but couldn’t create enough to trouble Teave Teamotuaitau in the Tahiti goal. With little left on the clock, Tahiti lost Matatia Paama to a red card.
Both teams now look forward to Saturday’s final group stage match day, where Papua New Guinea faces Samoa and Tahiti faces Fiji.
Papua New Guinea: 1 (Pala PAUL 24′)
Tahiti: 1 (Matéo DEGRUMELLE 15’)
HT: 1-1
