Fiji secured a narrow 1-0 victory over the Solomon Islands in the opening match of the FIFA Tri-Nations International Friendly series at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The decisive goal came from midfielder Tevita Waranaivalu, who converted a penalty in the 81st minute after defender Antonio Tuivuna was fouled in the box.
The match showcased a strong performance from both teams in the cool evening air of Laucala, pleasing their supporters with entertaining football. Sairusi Nalaubu and Thomas Dunn posed significant threats for Fiji, while the Solomon Islands’ Bobby Leslie and captain Micah Lea’alafa created opportunities, but they were effectively neutralized by the Fijian defense led by goalkeeper Akuila Mateisuva.
The first half ended without any goals, but a notable free-kick attempt from Filipe Baravilala in the second half nearly found the net, forcing Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Phillip Mango to make a spectacular save, though he was injured in the process and substituted by Harold Nauania.
Nauania demonstrated his skills by denying shots from both Nalaubu and Aporosa Yada. To maintain attacking vigor, Fiji’s coach Rob Sherman made strategic substitutions, bringing in young players Nabil Begg and Mohammed Raheem for Yada and Dave Radrigai. Waranaivalu and Setareki Hughes were also replaced in the final minutes of the game to preserve the lead.
Fiji U19 captain Sterling Vasconcellos joined the field during injury time to bolster the defense as Fiji held onto the slim advantage. The victory puts the Digicel Bula Boys in a favorable position as they prepare to face Hong Kong-China in their next and final match on Sunday, while the Solomon Islands will also play against Hong Kong-China at the HFC Bank Stadium 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.