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. Midfielder Tevita Waranaivalu was the hero for Fiji, converting a penalty in the 81st minute after defender Antonio Tuivuna was fouled.
The match showcased an entertaining display of football from both teams on a cool evening, with players Sairusi Nalaubu and Thomas Dunn posing a threat for Fiji. Despite creating some opportunities, the Solomon Islands’ Bobby Leslie and Captain Micah Lea’alafa were effectively contained by Fiji’s solid defense, led by goalkeeper Akuila Mateisuva.
The first half ended goalless, and a spectacular free-kick by Filipe Baravilala nearly resulted in a goal, forcing Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Phillip Mango to make a stretching save, which unfortunately led to an injury that required him to be replaced by Harold Nauania.
Nauania made a notable impact during his time on the field, denying efforts from Nalaubu and Aporosa Yada. Fiji coach Rob Sherman made strategic substitutions to maintain attacking momentum, bringing in young players Nabil Begg and Mohammed Raheem, and later replaced Waranaivalu and Setareki Hughes with Mosese Nabose and Sitiveni Cavuilagi in the closing minutes.
To bolster their defense, Fiji U19 captain Sterling Vasconcellos was introduced during stoppage time as Fiji held on to their slim lead for the win.
Looking ahead, the Digicel Bula Boys will face Hong Kong-China in their next match on Sunday, while the Solomon Islands prepare to take on Hong Kong-China at the HFC Bank Stadium on Thursday.
The starting line-ups for the match 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.