New Caledonia has advanced to the semifinals of the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship in Suva following a 3-1 victory over Tahiti.
The match’s breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Kinë Hmaen capitalized on a defensive error by Tahiti to score the opening goal for New Caledonia.
Tahiti attempted to respond quickly, but Lydie Gendron missed a promising opportunity to equalize. After the halftime break, Tahiti had another chance to draw level, but Kunuhei’s effort was ruled offside.
As the second half continued, Tahiti’s captain Maerehia Dehors came close with a shot from outside the box that went just wide. However, it was New Caledonia that increased their lead in the 69th minute when substitute Bernadette Nyikeine scored after being expertly assisted by Hmaen.
Tahiti managed to narrow the gap in the 73rd minute through Vaiuta Pani, who scored confidently after a one-on-one with New Caledonia’s goalkeeper, Elizabeth Aben.
Despite some late pressure, Tahiti could not find an equalizer. Hmaen secured the victory for New Caledonia with a spectacular volley in the 81st minute, concluding the match at 3-1 and ensuring a hard-earned win.