New Caledonia triumphed over Tahiti with a score of 3-1, securing a spot in the semifinals of the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship being held in Suva.
The match saw Kinë Hmaen play a pivotal role in New Caledonia’s offense, breaking the deadlock in the 36th minute after taking advantage of a defensive error from Tahiti.
Tahiti attempted to respond swiftly, but Lydie Gendron was unable to convert a key opportunity to equalize.
Following the halftime break, Tahiti had a chance to draw level, but Kunuhei’s attempt was flagged offside.
As the second half went on, Tahiti sought to make an impact from long range, with captain Maerehia Dehors sending a shot narrowly wide of the target.
New Caledonia, however, doubled their lead in the 69th minute when substitute Bernadette Nyikeine scored, assisted brilliantly by Hmaen.
Tahiti managed to reduce the deficit just four minutes later, with Vaiuta Pani scoring after a successful one-on-one against New Caledonia’s goalkeeper, Elizabeth Aben.
Despite their late attempts, Tahiti could not equalize, and Hmaen secured New Caledonia’s victory in the 81st minute with a spectacular volley, widely regarded as the tournament’s best goal, finalizing the match at 3-1.