Fiji has advanced to the semifinals of the OFC Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1-1 draw with New Caledonia in their final Group A match held in Papua New Guinea. This result secured Fiji a second-place finish in their group with a total of five points, while New Caledonia topped the group with seven points.
Fiji’s captain, Roy Krishna, opened the scoring just before halftime by converting a penalty after being fouled in the box. However, New Caledonia increased their pressure in the second half, leading to an equalizer by Jean-Jacques Katrawa in the 59th minute, thanks to a precise cross from Abezeier Jeno.
In a nail-biting finish, Fiji’s Christopher Wasasala nearly clinched a victory in stoppage time, but his header struck the post before being cleared away by the New Caledonian defense.
The upcoming semifinals will take place in New Zealand next year, where Fiji is anticipated to face the host nation. Fans are hopeful that this remarkable journey in the qualifiers will not only strengthen the team’s unity but also pave the way for increased support for football in Fiji, igniting further enthusiasm for the sport among young athletes.
As Fiji prepares for the semifinals, this experience could serve as a valuable stepping stone, raising aspirations for their World Cup journey and sparking a wave of national pride.
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