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 match’s sole goal came from midfielder Tevita Waranaivalu, who converted a penalty in the 81st minute after defender Antonio Tuivuna was fouled in the box.
Both teams showcased their skills in a well-contested match, providing an entertaining spectacle for fans on a cool evening in Laucala. Fiji’s Sairusi Nalaubu and Thomas Dunn posed significant threats, while the Solomon Islands’ Bobby Leslie and captain Micah Lea’alafa created opportunities, though they were effectively managed by Fiji’s defense, led by goalkeeper Akuila Mateisuva.
The first half ended in a stalemate, but the match intensified in the second half. A near-goal from Filipe Baravilala’s impressive free-kick forced a save from Solomon Islands goalkeeper Phillip Mango, who unfortunately sustained an injury in the process and was replaced by Harold Nauania.
Nauania performed admirably, making crucial saves against Nalaubu and Aporosa Yada. Fiji’s coach Rob Sherman made tactical changes in the second half, bringing in younger players Nabil Begg and Mohammed Raheem to maintain the attacking drive while substituting Waranaivalu and Setareki Hughes in the final minutes for fresh legs.
In added time, Fiji U19 Captain Sterling Vasconcellos was introduced to bolster the defense as Fiji defended their slim lead to secure 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 take on Hong Kong-China at the HFC Bank Stadium on Thursday.
The starting lineups for the match included:
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.