Fiji secured a narrow 1-0 victory over the Solomon Islands in the opening match of the FIFA Tri-Nations International Friendly series held at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The only goal of the match came from midfielder Tevita Waranaivalu, who converted a penalty in the 81st minute after defender Antonio Tuivuna was fouled in a promising attacking position.
Both teams showcased their skills in the cool evening weather, providing an entertaining match for their supporters. Fiji’s Sairusi Nalaubu and Thomas Dunn posed constant threats, while the Solomon Islands’ Bobby Leslie and captain Micah Lea’alafa created notable chances but were thwarted by a solid Fijian defense led by goalkeeper Akuila Mateisuva.
The first half ended without goals, but a stunning free-kick from Fiji’s Filipe Baravilala nearly put the team ahead, forcing an impressive save from Solomon Islands goalkeeper Phillip Mango, who suffered an injury and was subsequently replaced by Harold Nauania.
Nauania stepped up impressively in goal, fending off attempts from Nalaubu and Aporosa Yada. Fiji Coach Rob Sherman made tactical substitutions in the second half, introducing young players Nabil Begg and Mohammed Raheem to sustain the attacking intensity while also replacing Waranaivalu and Hughes with Mosese Nabose and Sitiveni Cavuilagi late in the game.
Fiji U19 captain Sterling Vasconcellos was brought on during injury time to bolster the defense as Fiji maintained their slim advantage for the win. The Digicel Bula Boys are set to face Hong Kong-China in their next match in Lautoka on Sunday, while the Solomon Islands will also meet Hong Kong-China at the same venue on Thursday.
The starting lineups were as follows:
Fiji: Akuila Mateisuva (C), Samuela Kautoga, Epeli Leiroti, Thomas Dunn, Setareki Hughes, Aporosa Yada, Tevita Waranaivalu, Sairusi Nalaubu, Antonio Tuivuna, Filipe Baravilala, Dave Radrigai.
Solomon Islands: Phillip Mango, Leon Kofana, William Komasi, Prince Tahunipue, Junior David, Atkin Kaua, Rafael Le’ai, Carlos Liomasia, Bobby Leslie, Micah Lea’alafa (C), Alvin Hou.