Fiji’s U-16 team showcased an impressive performance, securing a 2-1 victory over Tahiti to reach the finals of the OFC Championship. This win has also earned them a spot in the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar next year.
The match began with Tahiti asserting dominance but failing to penetrate Fiji’s robust defense. Fiji made the first breakthrough when Veleni Rasorewa displayed individual skill, navigating past two defenders and skillfully placing the ball past the Tahitian goalkeeper in the 7th minute, setting an energetic tone for the match.
Although Tahiti enjoyed the majority of possession, they struggled to translate that into scoring opportunities, narrowly missing a chance that struck the post just before halftime. Fiji’s effective counterattacks continued to pay off, as Rasorewa netted his second goal in the 68th minute with a powerful shot, doubling Fiji’s advantage.
Tahiti managed to reduce the deficit with a bit of luck when a long-range strike deflected off a Fijian defender into the net, reigniting their hopes. Nevertheless, Fiji’s defense proved resilient, successfully maintaining their lead until the final whistle.