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 saw midfielder Tevita Waranaivalu score the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 81st minute after defender Antonio Tuivuna was fouled in the attacking third.
The match showcased an entertaining display of football, with both teams providing exciting moments for the fans on a cool evening. Fiji’s Sairusi Nalaubu and Thomas Dunn posed threats in attack, while Bobby Leslie and captain Micah Lea’alafa created several opportunities, though they were effectively contained by Fijian goalkeeper Akuila Mateisuva and his defense.
The first half concluded without any goals, but a spectacular free-kick from Filipe Baravilala almost found the back of the net, forcing Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Phillip Mango to make a stretching save, although he sustained an injury in the process and was substituted by Harold Nauania.
Nauania made key saves to deny Nalaubu and Aporosa Yada, while Fiji’s coach Rob Sherman introduced fresh players, including youngsters Nabil Begg and Mohammed Raheem, to maintain their attacking approach.
As the match drew to a close, Waranaivalu and Setareki Hughes were substituted in the final ten minutes for Mosese Nabose and Sitiveni Cavuilagi, respectively. Fiji U19 captain Sterling Vasconcellos was also brought on in stoppage time to strengthen the defense as Fiji maintained their slim lead.
Looking ahead, the Digicel Bula Boys will take on Hong Kong-China in their next match in Lautoka on Sunday, while the Solomon Islands are set to face the same opponents 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.