New Caledonia triumphed over Tahiti with a score of 3-1, securing their place in the semifinals of the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship held in Suva.
The match began to shift in New Caledonia’s favor when Kinë Hmaen scored in the 36th minute, taking advantage of a defensive blunder from Tahiti. Despite Tahiti’s quick response, they struggled to equalize, with Lydie Gendron missing a significant opportunity.
In the second half, Tahiti came close to leveling the score again, but Kunuhei’s shot was ruled offside. As they continued to press forward, team captain Maerehia Dehors came close with a shot from outside the box that went just wide.
New Caledonia doubled their lead in the 69th minute when substitute Bernadette Nyikeine scored, receiving a well-placed assist from Hmaen. Tahiti responded shortly after, with Vaiuta Pani finding the net in the 73rd minute after successfully navigating a one-on-one situation against New Caledonia’s goalkeeper, Elizabeth Aben.
Despite their late attempts to change the outcome, Tahiti could not find another goal. Hmaen confirmed the victory for New Caledonia in the 81st minute with an impressive volley, marking the game with a final score of 3-1 and a well-deserved advancement to the next round.