Fiji triumphed over the Solomon Islands with a 1-0 victory in the opening match of the FIFA Tri-Nations International Friendly series held at 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 during an offensive play.
The match showcased an entertaining display of football from both teams on a cool evening in Laucala. Fiji’s Sairusi Nalaubu and Thomas Dunn posed significant threats, while Solomon Islands’ Bobby Leslie and Captain Micah Lea’alafa managed to create several scoring opportunities, but they were effectively thwarted by the Fijian defense, led by goalkeeper Akuila Mateisuva.
The teams entered halftime with a score of 0-0. A memorable moment came when Filipe Baravilala’s spectacular free-kick nearly found the back of the net, prompting a remarkable save from Solomon Islands goalkeeper Phillip Mango, who unfortunately sustained an injury in the process and had to be substituted for Harold Nauania.
Nauania made an impression in goal, stopping attempts from Nalaubu and Aporosa Yada. Fiji Coach Rob Sherman made tactical substitutions, introducing young players Nabil Begg and Mohammed Raheem to maintain his team’s attacking momentum, replacing Yada and Dave Radrigai.
In the final minutes, Waranaivalu and Setareki Hughes were also substituted for Mosese Nabose and Sitiveni Cavuilagi, while Fiji U19 Captain Sterling Vasconcellos was brought on in stoppage time to bolster the defense as Fiji held onto their slim lead for the win.
The Digicel Bula Boys are set to play against Hong Kong-China in their next match in Lautoka on Sunday, while the Solomon Islands will face Hong Kong-China at the HFC Bank Stadium on Thursday.
The starting lineups 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.