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 scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 81st minute, following a foul on defender Antonio Tuivuna during an offensive play.
The match showcased impressive performances from both teams, with the cool evening in Laucala contributing to an engaging atmosphere for fans. For Fiji, players Sairusi Nalaubu and Thomas Dunn presented a threat, while Bobby Leslie and Captain Micah Lea’alafa generated several scoring opportunities for the Solomon Islands but were shut down by a solid Fijian defense led by goalkeeper Akuila Mateisuva.
The first half ended without any goals, and a remarkable free-kick attempt by Filipe Baravilala nearly resulted in a goal, forcing Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Phillip Mango to make a stretching save, though he picked up an injury in the process and was replaced by Harold Nauania.
Nauania performed admirably in goal, thwarting attempts from Nalaubu and Aporosa Yada. Fiji’s coach, Rob Sherman, introduced substitutes Nabil Begg and Mohammed Raheem to maintain attacking momentum, replacing Yada and Dave Radrigai, while Waranaivalu and Setareki Hughes were also substituted in the closing moments for Mosese Nabose and Sitiveni Cavuilagi. Fiji U19 Captain Sterling Vasconcellos was brought on in stoppage time to strengthen the defense as Fiji held on to their slim lead.
Next, the Digicel Bula Boys will encounter Hong Kong-China in their final match in Lautoka on Sunday, while the Solomon Islands are set to face Hong Kong-China at the HFC Bank Stadium on Thursday.
The starting lineups for both teams were:
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.